Image Source: PTI
[Saba Sports News] Jasprit Bumrah, the celebrated Indian fast bowler, made history by securing the number one spot in the ICC Test rankings for bowlers on February 07, becoming the first Indian fast bowler to achieve this distinction. His exceptional performance, which included a nine-wicket haul against England in Visakhapatnam, propelled him past teammate Ravichandran Ashwin to the top.
Bumrah joins an elite group of Indian bowlers, including Bishan Singh Bedi, Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja, to reach this pinnacle in Test cricket. His achievement was met with widespread acclaim from the cricket world, marking a career-first for him. However, Bumrah’s reaction was enigmatic, sharing a thought-provoking Instagram story that depicted the stark contrast in support during his lows and highs.
The Ahmedabad-born Bumrah made a triumphant return to international cricket on August 18, 2023, after an 11-month hiatus due to a stress fracture. His absence was felt during critical tournaments such as the T20 World Cup 2022, Asia Cup 2022, and the World Test Championship 2023 final, all of which India failed to clinch. Despite facing criticism and doubts over his dedication to the sport during his recovery, Bumrah silenced his detractors with outstanding performances across formats upon his return.
In his comeback, Bumrah has taken 27 Test wickets in seven innings, boasting an average of 11.66, and has been equally effective in ODIs and T20Is. His remarkable figures of 9/91 in the second Test against England were the second-best of his career. As India prepares to face England in the third Test at Rajkot, Bumrah’s form will be crucial for the team’s prospects.