New Delhi, December 30 : Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah etched his name in cricketing history by achieving several remarkable milestones during the Boxing Day Test against Australia at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Bumrah’s exceptional performance has propelled him past legendary figures like Anil Kumble and Kapil Dev, further cementing his legacy as one of India’s finest bowlers.
Second-Highest Wicket-Taker in SENA Conditions
Bumrah has now become Asia’s second-highest wicket-taker in South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia (SENA) conditions, surpassing the legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble.
Kumble previously held 141 wickets in these challenging conditions, but the 31-year-old Bumrah has now claimed 143 wickets, overtaking Kumble in fewer matches. Only Pakistan’s Wasim Akram stands ahead of Bumrah with 146 wickets in SENA nations.
Most Wickets by an Indian in Overseas Conditions
Bumrah’s exploits at the MCG also saw him break Anil Kumble’s record for the most wickets taken by an Indian bowler at a single overseas venue. Kumble had picked up 20 wickets in five innings at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Bumrah, on the other hand, now has 24 wickets at the MCG from just three matches, at an astounding average of 15.26, including two five-wicket hauls.
First Bowler to Take 200 Test Wickets at an Average Below 20
Continuing his scintillating form in the ongoing series, Bumrah achieved yet another remarkable milestone. He became the first bowler in cricket history to take 200 Test wickets at an average of less than 20.
In the second innings of the Melbourne Test, Bumrah bowled 24.4 overs, conceding just 57 runs at an economy rate of 2.33 while picking up five wickets. His victims included Sam Constas, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey, and Nathan Lyon.
Bumrah’s match tally reached 30 wickets in the series at an average of 13.24, including three five-wicket hauls. With this performance, he also became the fastest Indian to reach 200 Test wickets, achieving the milestone in just 8,484 deliveries.
Fourth-Fastest Bowler to 200 Test Wickets Globally
Bumrah’s achievement places him among the elite. He is now the fourth-fastest bowler in the world to take 200 Test wickets in terms of balls bowled, trailing only Waqar Younis (7,725), Dale Steyn (7,848), and Kagiso Rabada (8,153). His impeccable control and ability to exploit conditions have earned him comparisons with the greats of the game.
Surpassing Kapil Dev in Australia
Bumrah has now overtaken legendary Indian all-rounder Kapil Dev to become the Indian bowler with the most international wickets against Australia in Australia. Bumrah’s tally stands at 76 wickets in 21 matches at an average of 19.74, including his best figures of 6/33 and four five-wicket hauls.
In comparison, Kapil Dev had claimed 72 wickets in 31 matches at an average of 25.44. Bumrah’s dominance in Australian conditions is a testament to his versatility and ability to adapt to some of the world’s toughest pitches.
Setting New Benchmarks in Indian Cricket
Jasprit Bumrah’s achievements in the Melbourne Test underline his status as one of India’s greatest pace bowlers. His ability to perform consistently in overseas conditions, especially against formidable batting line-ups, places him in a league of his own.
With every match, Bumrah continues to shatter records and redefine excellence in Indian bowling, solidifying his place as a modern-day legend in the cricketing world.
Jasprit Bumrah’s Melbourne Records at a Glance:
- SENA Wickets: 143 (2nd highest for an Asian bowler).
- Overseas Venue Wickets: 24 wickets at MCG (highest by an Indian bowler).
- 200 Test Wickets: Fastest Indian in terms of balls bowled (8,484 deliveries).
- Most International Wickets in Australia: 76 wickets, surpassing Kapil Dev.
- First Bowler with 200 Test Wickets at an Average Below 20.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
