jasprit bumrahHis stunning performances in 2024 earned him Cricket Australia’s Test Team Captain of the Year. India’s spearhead bagged an impressive 71 wickets in just 13 matches at an average of 14.92 at a strike rate of 30.16. These figures underline his dominance as one of the most prolific bowlers in modern cricket.
Cricket Australia praised Bumrah, stating: “One of the best calendar years by a bowler ever. Not since Dale Steyn’s 74 in 2008 has the pace been so prolific, not since Imran Khan’s 62 in 1982 has he bowled at such remarkable pace.”
An amazing year with the ball
Bumrah’s exploits were not limited to a single series. Tortured Australia with 30 wickets in progress Border-Gavaskar Trophyregarded as one of the best tours by a visiting bowler. Back home, he tore apart England’s batting line-up, taking 19 wickets on surfaces where other players struggled.
As Cricket Australia noted, “Bumrah cleaned up England on useless home pitches where every other spinner was turning in the park”.
His consistency and impact throughout the year also earned him leadership responsibilities, a role he successfully embraced during India’s win in Perth.
Yashasvi Jaiswal shines brightly
Joining Bumrah in the lineup is India’s batting sensation Yashasvi Jaiswal. The young captain showed maturity beyond his years, amassing 1,478 runs in 15 matches at an average of 54.74. With three centuries and nine fifties, Jaiswal ended the year as the second highest run scorer in Test cricket.
Jaiswal’s double double centuries against England secured a home win for India, while his scintillating 161 in Perth was instrumental in India’s triumph Down Under. His 36 sixes in the calendar year set a new world benchmark for Test cricket.
Cricket Australia described him as “India’s brilliant young star, who played with the composure and poise of a veteran”.
Notable omissions and global representation
Australia’s Pat Cumminsdespite his 37 wickets from nine matches at an average of 24.02, failed to do so. In contrast, compatriots Alex Carey and Josh Hazlewood represented the host country in the XI.
The line-up also included distinguished performers from around the world of cricket: England’s Ben Duckett, Joe Rootand Harry Brooke. of New Zealand Raheen Ravindra and Matt Henry; Kamindu Mendis of Sri Lanka? and South Africa Keshav Maharaj.
Cricket Australia’s best Test squad for 2024:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal (India)
- Ben Duckett (England)
- Joe Root (England)
- Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand)
- Harry Brook (England)
- Kamindu Mendis (Sri Lanka)
- Alex Carey (Australia) (Wicketkeeper)
- Matt Henry (New Zealand)
- Jasprit Bumrah (India) (Capt
- Josh Hazlewood (Australia)
- Keshav Maharaj (South Africa)
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