Jasprit Bumrah has etched his name in cricket's history books once again, surpassing a record held by the legendary Wasim Akram. During the ongoing first Test against England at Headingley, Leeds, Bumrah became the Asian bowler with the most Test wickets in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia). This achievement reaffirms his status as one of the premier fast bowlers in the world.
The record-breaking moment arrived when Bumrah dismissed England opener Ben Duckett. This crucial wicket not only gave India a breakthrough but also pushed Bumrah's tally to 148 wickets in SENA countries, surpassing Akram's previous record of 146. The list of Asian bowlers with the most Test wickets in SENA now reads: Jasprit Bumrah (148), Wasim Akram (146), Anil Kumble (141), Ishant Sharma (130), and Mohammed Shami (123).
Bumrah's performance on Day 2 of the Test was instrumental in keeping India in the game. After India were bowled out for 471, Bumrah provided an early breakthrough by dismissing Zak Crawley. Later, he returned to break the 122-run partnership between Duckett and Ollie Pope by dismissing Duckett, shifting the momentum back in India's favor.
Bumrah's numbers in SENA countries speak volumes about his adaptability and skill. In Australia, he has 64 wickets in 12 Tests, with a best of 6/33. In England, he now has 39 wickets in 10 Tests, with a best of 5/64. He also has 38 wickets in 8 Tests in South Africa (best of 6/61) and 6 wickets in 2 Tests in New Zealand (best of 3/62). These figures highlight his ability to perform in diverse conditions against top-quality opposition.
This isn't the only record that Bumrah holds. In the IPL, he surpassed Lasith Malinga to become the highest wicket-taker for Mumbai Indians with 174 wickets. His consistent performance in the IPL playoffs further solidifies his reputation as a match-winner. Bumrah also continues to achieve individual accolades. At the BCCI Awards 2025, he was named the Best International Cricketer of the Year (men), also known as the Polly Umrigar Award, for the 2023-24 season. He previously won the same award in 2018-19 and 2021-22. In February 2025, he received the ICC Men's Cricketer of the Year award and the Sir Garfield Sobers Award for his outstanding performance in 2024. He was also named in the ICC Men's Test Team of the Year and ICC Men's T20I Team of the Year.
Jasprit Bumrah's journey to becoming a world-class bowler is a testament to his dedication, skill, and relentless pursuit of excellence. He has consistently proven his mettle on the international stage, adapting to different conditions and delivering match-winning performances. As he continues his career, cricket fans around the world will be eagerly watching to see what other records he will break and how many more accolades he will achieve.
