Jasprit Bumrah – India’s Bowling Sensation
Introduction
Jasprit Bumrah is one of the most feared fast bowlers in modern cricket. Known for his unorthodox action, deadly yorkers, and ability to bowl in all formats, he has been a match-winner for India on multiple occasions. His recent recognition with the Polly Umrigar Award for Best International Cricketer (2023–24) further cements his legacy as one of India’s greatest pacers.
Early Life and Cricket Journey
Jasprit Jasbirsingh Bumrah was born on December 6, 1993, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Coming from a humble background, he lost his father at an early age and was raised by his mother. His unique bowling action was developed naturally, and he gained attention while playing domestic cricket for Gujarat in the Ranji Trophy.
His big break came in the Indian Premier League (IPL) when he was picked by the Mumbai Indians (MI) in 2013. Under the mentorship of Lasith Malinga, Bumrah refined his skills, especially his toe-crushing yorkers, which became his trademark.
Rise in International Cricket
Bumrah made his India debut in 2016 in T20Is and ODIs against Australia. His ability to bowl in the death overs made him an instant asset to the team. He later made his Test debut in 2018 during India’s tour of South Africa and quickly became India’s strike bowler in all formats.
Career Achievements
Test Cricket Achievements
- Fastest Indian pacer to 100 Test wickets (in just 24 matches)
- First Asian bowler to take a five-wicket haul in South Africa, England, Australia, and the West Indies
- 32 wickets in the 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, winning the Player of the Series
ODI Achievements
- Second-best ODI figures for an Indian (6/19 vs England, 2022)
- Played a key role in India’s 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup campaign, finishing among the leading wicket-takers
- Part of India’s 2019 and 2023 World Cup squads
T20I Achievements
- Helped India win the T20 World Cup 2024, leading the bowling attack
- Economy rate under 6.5 in T20Is, making him one of the best death-over bowlers
- Consistently ranked among the top T20I bowlers in the world
Polly Umrigar Award – Best International Cricketer (2023–24)
Jasprit Bumrah was honored with the Polly Umrigar Award for Best International Cricketer (Men) for 2023–24 at the BCCI Naman Awards 2025. This was the third time he received this prestigious award, having previously won it in 2018–19 and 2021–22.
Why Did Bumrah Win the Award?
- Outstanding performances in all formats
- 32 wickets in 5 Tests against Australia (2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy)
- Played a key role in India’s T20 World Cup 2024 victory
- Continued to dominate international cricket with match-winning spells
Playing Style and Strengths
- Deadly Yorkers – One of the best in the world at executing toe-crushing yorkers
- Unpredictable Variations – Can bowl slower balls, bouncers, and cutters effectively
- Economical and Consistent – Among the most reliable bowlers in all three formats
- Match-Winner in All Conditions – Proven success in India, Australia, England, and South Africa
Legacy and Future Prospects
Jasprit Bumrah has already established himself as India’s greatest fast bowler of the modern era. At just 31, he still has many years ahead and is expected to break more records. His leadership in bowling and ability to perform under pressure make him a true game-changer.