Jasprit Bumrah bowls a yorker at critics after becoming No.1 ranked Test bowler

India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has posted a cryptic message on Instagram after achieving a historic milestone in the ICC Test bowling rankings. In a likely dig at critics, on Instagram, Bumrah juxtaposed images: one depicting a solitary figure under “support,” contrasted with a packed stadium under “congratulations.” This post aimed at those who had doubted him during his injury layoff in 2022 and 2023, which saw him miss significant tournaments like the T20 World Cup and IPL 2023.

Bumrah’s ascendancy to the top of the Test rankings comes after his remarkable performance in the second Test against England, where he claimed nine wickets, leading India to a crucial victory. This achievement surpassed stalwarts like Pat Cummins, Kagiso Rabada, and his teammate Ravichandran Ashwin, marking a significant milestone in his career.

Bumrah’s record

Notably, India’s spinners Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Bishan Singh Bedi have previously held the top spot in the test bowling rankings.
Acknowledging his role as a transitional figure in Indian Test bowling, Bumrah emphasized his responsibility to mentor emerging talents like Mukesh Kumar and Avesh Khan. Reflecting on his journey, Bumrah credited legendary pacers like Zaheer Khan, Wasim Akram, and Waqar Younis for inspiring his signature delivery, the yorker. He stressed the need for adaptability and continued improvement in his game, aiming to be more than a one-dimensional bowler.

In the second Test, impressive bowling performances by Bumrah and Ravichandran Ashwin led India to a 106-run victory over England in Visakhapatnam, leveling the series at 1-1. The third Test in Rajkot against England is set to commence on February 15.

Bumrah’s first-ever stint as No 1 Test bowler

This marks Bumrah’s first-ever stint at the top spot in the rankings. Despite boasting ten five-wicket hauls from 34 Test matches, the 30-year-old had never ascended beyond third place previously. Among his notable achievements this year are two five-wicket hauls. Bumrah’s stellar performances include figures of 6/61 against South Africa in Cape Town early in the year and an equally impressive spell of 6/45 in his most recent outing against England.Bumrah earned the player of the match award in Visakhapatnam, surpassing teammate Yashasvi Jaiswal, who scored his debut test double hundred. Jaiswal’s impressive performance propelled him 37 places up to 29th in the test batting rankings, led by Kane Williamson of New Zealand. (With PTI inputs)

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