Jasprit Bumrah, India’s top fast bowler, was named the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year for 2024 after an outstanding performance in both home and away matches. On January 27, 2025, he was recognised for taking 71 wickets in 13 Test matches, with an impressive average of just 14.92. Bumrah made his return to Test cricket in late 2023 after recovering from a back injury, and during 2024, he became the highest wicket-taker in the world, breaking several records along the way.

India’s standout bowler

The ICC praised Bumrah as the best bowler in the world in 2024. His ability to perform well in different playing conditions helped India stay strong in the ICC World Test Championship. Bumrah was key to India’s successful wins against England and Bangladesh at home. He also did an excellent job in tough away series in South Africa and Australia, showing his skill no matter where he played.

With 71 wickets, Bumrah not only won the ICC Test Cricketer of the Year award but also finished as the top wicket-taker of 2024. He was far ahead of second-place Gus Atkinson from England, who took 52 wickets in 11 matches. Bumrah is the sixth Indian player to win this prestigious award, joining cricket legends like Rahul Dravid, Gautam Gambhir, Virender Sehwag, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Virat Kohli. This achievement adds to India’s strong cricket history and brings them on par with Australia for having the most players win the ICC Test Cricketer of the Year award.

Remarkable return to test cricket

Bumrah made an amazing comeback to Test cricket in 2023 after recovering from a back injury. Even though he had been away for a long time, he quickly showed he was still one of the best bowlers in the world. He bowled consistently well, with an impressive economy rate of 2.96 and a strike rate of just 30.1.

One of his best performances was in the first match of India's series against Australia in Perth. India had only scored 150 runs on the first day, but Bumrah's outstanding bowling helped the team make a strong comeback. He took 5 wickets for 30 runs in the first inning. In the second innings, Bumrah took 3 wickets for 42 runs, leading India to a stunning 295-run victory. This win also marked Australia's first-ever loss at that ground.

Bumrah had an amazing year, taking more than 70 wickets in Test matches, which is something only a few Indian bowlers have achieved. He is now in the group of just four Indian bowlers who have taken over 70 wickets in a year, alongside Ravichandran Ashwin, Anil Kumble, and Kapil Dev.

Bumrah’s hard work is clear from the 357 overs he bowled in Tests, showing his dedication and stamina. This effort proves he is one of the greatest fast bowlers the cricket world has seen.

As Bumrah enjoys his well-deserved recognition, his incredible comeback from injury and his brilliant performances in 2024 will always be remembered as one of the best by an Indian bowler in Test cricket.