After a stellar performance in the red-ball format, Jasprit Bumrah, the fast-bowling sensation from India, was named the 2024 ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year. Following his recovery from a back injury in late 2023, the 31-year-old pace ace took 71 wickets in 13 Test matches, his best-ever season total.
With 19 more wickets than England’s Gus Atkinson, who took 52 from 11 games, Bumrah ended first on the wicket-taking chart. Bumrah’s effort was noteworthy even if India lost to Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. Throughout the five-match series, he claimed 32 wickets at an incredible average of 13.06. At just 30.1, his strike rate for the year was equally excellent.
Bumrah’s domination was highlighted by the ICC, which observed that his average of 14.92 was the lowest among bowlers who claimed 70 or more wickets in a calendar year. He won the coveted prize by defeating Joe Root and Harry Brook of England and Kamindu Mendis of Sri Lanka.
Bumrah conveyed his appreciation, stating that the honour was a result of his efforts and the unwavering support of his teammates, coaches, and supporters. “Representing India is a privilege,” he continued.