DUBAI: Indian pace sensation Jasprit Bumrah has been awarded the prestigious ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year for 2024, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Monday. The accolade recognizes Bumrah’s exceptional performance in the red-ball format, where he achieved his best-ever annual wicket haul.
The 31-year-old fast bowler dominated the Test wicket-taking charts in the past year, claiming an impressive 71 wickets in just 13 matches. This remarkable feat placed him 19 wickets ahead of England’s Gus Atkinson, who took 52 wickets in 11 matches. Bumrah’s achievement is even more significant considering his return from a back injury in late 2023.
Despite India’s loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, Bumrah was a standout performer. He concluded the five-match Test series, which ended earlier in January, with 32 wickets at an astonishing average of 13.06, earning him the well-deserved Player of the Series award.
“His (Bumrah) average across the year was a ridiculous 14.92, and he ended 2024 with an annual strike rate of just 30.1,” the ICC stated. “Across test history, none of the 17 bowlers to have taken 70+ wickets in a calendar year did so at an average as low as Bumrah’s.”
Bumrah surpassed fellow nominees Harry Brook and Joe Root of England, along with Sri Lanka’s Kamindu Mendis, to claim the coveted award. He follows in the footsteps of Virat Kohli, the last Indian cricketer to win the award in 2018.
Expressing his gratitude, Bumrah said, “I am deeply honoured to receive the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year award. Test cricket has always been a format I hold close to my heart, and to be recognised on this platform is truly special.”
“This award is not just a reflection of my individual efforts but also of the unwavering support of my teammates, coaches, and fans who continue to believe and inspire me every day. Representing India is a privilege I deeply cherish, and knowing my efforts bring smiles to people around the world makes this journey even more special.”
