Gautam Gambhir, India's new Test head coach, was spotted waiting for Jasprit Bumrah in front of the Lord's Honours Board, a gesture that preceded the تحقق the fast bowler's entry onto the celebrated list. Bumrah achieved this milestone by taking a five-wicket haul during the second day of the third Test against England at Lord's.
Entering the Lord's Honours Board is considered a significant accomplishment in cricket. The board recognizes players who have scored a century or taken five wickets in a Test innings at Lord's. Many legends of the sport have never achieved this honor.
Jasprit Bumrah's journey to the Lord's Honours Board wasn't without its challenges. Before the Test, there was speculation about the pitch favoring pace bowlers. Bumrah, rested for the Birmingham match, returned to the XI amid expectations. Despite the expectations and pressure, Bumrah showcased his skill and adaptability.
On the second day, England showed resilience with Brydon Carse's career-best 56. Carse frustrated the Indian bowlers, capitalizing on dropped catches to reach his maiden Test fifty. However, Bumrah bounced back, dismissing Jofra Archer with an inswinger. This marked Bumrah's first five-wicket haul at Lord's, earning him applause. Mohammed Siraj wrapped up the innings, with England all out for 387. Bumrah finished with figures of 5/74.
Bumrah's performance was more than just statistics; it was a display of skill overcoming conditions. Despite the hot weather and lack of wind, Bumrah delivered a bowling masterclass. He consciously avoided overthinking the Lord's slope, a lesson learned from a previous tour.
At the press conference, Bumrah addressed his critics and spoke about what it meant to him to be on the Lord's Honours Board. He acknowledged feeling tired after taking the milestone wicket, joking that he couldn't celebrate like a 21-year-old. Instead, he expressed happiness in contributing to the team and creating memories to share with his son, Angad, in the future.
With this achievement, Bumrah equaled Ravindra Jadeja for the most Test five-wicket hauls for India. He also surpassed Kapil Dev for the most Test wickets by an Indian bowler in England, with only Ishant Sharma ahead of him. This was Bumrah's fourth five-wicket haul in England, where he averages 25.43.
Bumrah's inclusion on the Lord's Honours Board adds his name to a list that includes Ajit Agarkar and Chetan Sharma, while Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar are not on it. As the third Test progresses, it remains to be seen if Bumrah can add to his achievements with another five-wicket haul, potentially leading India to a series lead.
