Jasprit Bumrah Named ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year 2024

India’s pace sensation Jasprit Bumrah has been crowned the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year for 2024, capping off an incredible year in the longest format of the game. The announcement came on Monday, recognizing Bumrah’s unmatched dominance in red-ball cricket.

Returning from a back injury in late 2023, the 31-year-old pacer claimed 71 wickets in just 13 matches, leading the wicket charts for the year. His tally was 19 wickets clear of second-placed Gus Atkinson of England, who played 11 Tests.

Bumrah’s most remarkable performance came during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, where he claimed 32 wickets in a five-match series at a stunning average of 13.06. Despite India losing the series, his efforts earned him the Player of the Series award.

The ICC highlighted the historical significance of Bumrah’s achievements, stating:

“His average across the year was a ridiculous 14.92, and he ended 2024 with an annual strike rate of just 30.1. Across Test history, none of the 17 bowlers to have taken 70+ wickets in a calendar year did so at an average as low as Bumrah’s.”

Bumrah edged past England’s Harry Brook, Joe Root, and Sri Lanka’s Kamindu Mendis to claim the prestigious honor. He is the first Indian to win the award since Virat Kohli in 2018.

Expressing gratitude, Bumrah said:

“I am deeply honoured to receive the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year award. Test cricket has always been a format I hold close to my heart, and to be recognised on this platform is truly special.

This award is not just a reflection of my individual efforts but also of the unwavering support of my teammates, coaches, and fans who continue to believe and inspire me every day. Representing India is a privilege I deeply cherish, and knowing my efforts bring smiles to people around the world makes this journey even more special.”

Bumrah’s stellar year solidifies his status as one of the greatest seam bowlers in modern cricket, setting the benchmark for excellence in Test cricket.