Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has been named the ICC Test Cricketer of the Year 2024, securing the prestigious award after a standout year. He triumphed over strong contenders like Kamindu Mendis, Joe Root, and Harry Brook, as announced by the ICC on January 27.
Bumrah finished 2024 as the top wicket-taker in Tests, claiming 71 wickets in just 26 innings across 13 Tests. His remarkable bowling average of 14.92 was far superior to the competition, with his nearest rival, Gus Atkinson, trailing by 19 wickets. The right-arm pacer also led the year with the best strike rate of 30.16 among all bowlers with over 25 wickets.
Bumrah played a pivotal role in India’s 4-1 Test series victory over England in March, picking up 19 wickets in eight innings. Furthermore, he continued his dominance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia in November and December, taking 30 wickets across just four Tests.
This marks a historic achievement for Bumrah, who is the first Indian fast bowler to win the ICC Test Cricketer of the Year award. Along with this honor, the ICC included him in the Test Team of the Year, where he joins Australian captain Pat Cummins.
Apart from his Test success, Bumrah enjoyed a remarkable year in T20Is, contributing significantly to India’s historic T20 World Cup win in the USA and the West Indies in June 2024, further cementing his reputation as one of cricket’s top performers.
