Indian cricket fans are on cloud nine as Jasprit Bumrah shattered records, becoming the first Indian bowler to claim 32 wickets in an overseas Test series. This historic milestone, achieved during the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, highlights Bumrah’s dominance as a fast-bowling maestro.
The Context of the Achievement
Bumrah, a soft-spoken yet fiercely competitive cricketer from Gujarat, began his journey on dusty pitches before making waves in domestic cricket. Known for his unorthodox bowling action and lethal yorkers, he quickly became India’s go-to bowler in high-pressure situations. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, known for intense rivalries and high stakes, saw Bumrah as a pivotal figure. Battling top-notch Australian batsmen, he showcased grit, precision, and unmatched skill, cementing India’s stronghold in the series.
Breaking Bishan Singh Bedi’s Record
Bumrah’s performance eclipsed the previous record held by Bishan Singh Bedi, a legendary spinner who scalped 31 wickets during India’s 1977-78 tour of Australia. While Bedi’s feat came on spin-friendly pitches, Bumrah conquered Australia on pace-dominated tracks, underlining the versatility of his bowling prowess.
Bumrah equalled Harbhajan Singh’s record of 32 wickets against Australia during the 2001 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With one more wicket, he’s poised to become the all-time highest wicket-taker in an India-Australia Test series. One more wicket in the ongoing match will help Bumrah break Harbhajan’s 24-year-old record and take No. 1 wicket in the elite list.
Bumrah’s feat places him among the elite, surpassing legends like Bhagwath Chandrasekhar and Kapil Dev. His remarkable consistency and adaptability, even in adverse conditions, make him a standout performer in Indian cricket history.
Most wickets in a Test series for India away from home
Jasprit Bumrah – 32* (vs Australia, 2024-25)
Bishan Singh Bedi – 31 (vs Australia, 1977-78)
Bhagwath Chandrasekhar – 28 (vs Australia, 1977-78)
Subhash Gupte – 26 (vs West Indies, 1952-53)
Kapil Dev – 25 (vs Australia, 1991-92)
The Impact of Bumrah’s Performance
Bumrah’s in-swingers, bouncers, and relentless line-and-length dismantled Australia’s top order repeatedly. His dismissal of Marnus Labuschagne at the SCG further highlighted his strategic brilliance. Not just a bowler, Bumrah’s quick 22 runs at No. 10 lifted India’s first-innings total, proving that even lower-order players could step up when needed. His partnership with Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj added vital runs.
What’s Next for Bumrah?
As the Sydney Test progresses, Bumrah aims to leapfrog Bhagwath Chandrasekhar’s record of 35 wickets in a series. The 31-year-old shows no signs of slowing down, with more milestones seemingly within reach.
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