Jasprit Bumrah, India’s spearhead fast bowler, has etched his name in the annals of cricket history by becoming the first player to take 200 Test wickets while maintaining an excellent average. This remarkable achievement was secured during the fourth Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), where Bumrah dismissed Travis Head to reach the monumental milestone.
Breaking records: Jasprit Bumrah’s exceptional bowling average
Bumrah’s journey to 200 wickets has been nothing short of spectacular. His average of 19.38 stands as the best among all bowlers who have reached or surpassed the 200-wicket mark in Test cricket, surpassing iconic figures like Malcolm Marshall, Joel Garner, and Curtly Ambrose, who held averages slightly above 20. This record-breaking performance places Bumrah in a unique position, highlighting his exceptional skill and consistency in the longest format of the game.
Fastest to 200 Test wickets
In terms of matches played, Bumrah reached this landmark in his 44th Test, equaling Ravindra Jadeja‘s record for the second-fastest Indian to 200 Test wickets. Previously, Kapil Dev held the record for the fastest Indian pacer to this milestone, achieving it in his 50th match.
However, Bumrah’s feat in terms of balls bowled is even more impressive; he did so in 8,484 deliveries, making him the fourth-fastest bowler globally to reach 200 wickets, behind Waqar Younis, Dale Steyn, and Kagiso Rabada.
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The art of fast bowling: Bumrah’s skill and consistency
The significance of Bumrah’s record extends beyond mere statistics. His ability to maintain such a low average, especially in an era where batting conditions have become increasingly favorable, speaks volumes about his mastery over the art of fast bowling. His unique action, combined with an array of variations, including his lethal yorkers and seam movement, has made him a nightmare for batters worldwide.