Key Highlights:
- Historic Achievement: Jasprit Bumrah becomes the first bowler in Test cricket’s 148-year history to claim 200 wickets at an average below 20.
- Record in Style: Bumrah achieved the milestone during the fourth Test against Australia in Melbourne by dismissing Travis Head in the second innings.
- Fastest Indian to 200 Wickets in Balls Bowled: Bumrah reached the milestone in 8,484 balls, placing him fourth on the global list for least balls to achieve this feat.
- Boxing Day Test Dominance: Bumrah’s stellar performance has bolstered India’s chances as he dismissed key Australian batsmen in both innings.
- Global Comparisons: Bumrah surpasses legends like Malcolm Marshall and Dale Steyn in terms of averages and efficiency, further solidifying his reputation.
New Delhi: The Boxing Day Test in Melbourne turned into a historic occasion for Indian cricket as Jasprit Bumrah etched his name in the annals of Test cricket history. On the fourth day of the fourth match in the five-Test series against Australia, Bumrah achieved an extraordinary milestone, becoming the first bowler in history to take 200 Test wickets at an average below 20.
Milestone Moment
Bumrah’s landmark moment came when he dismissed Australia’s in-form batsman Travis Head in the second innings. Head, who had failed to open his account in the first innings, fell victim to Bumrah’s precision yet again. The wicket marked Bumrah’s 200th in Test cricket, achieved with remarkable efficiency.
Fastest to 200 Wickets in Balls Bowled
Bumrah reached his double-century of wickets in 8,484 deliveries, making him the fastest Indian and fourth overall in terms of balls bowled to reach the milestone. He joins an elite list that includes Pakistan’s Waqar Younis, South Africa’s Dale Steyn, and Kagiso Rabada.
Least Balls to 200 Test Wickets:
- 7,725 balls – Waqar Younis
- 7,848 balls – Dale Steyn
- 8,153 balls – Kagiso Rabada
- 8,484 balls – Jasprit Bumrah
Unmatched Efficiency
What makes Bumrah’s achievement unique is his stunning average of under 20 runs per wicket. He is the only bowler in the history of Test cricket with 200 or more wickets to achieve such a feat. Comparisons with the legendary Malcolm Marshall, who had an average of 20.94 across 376 wickets, further highlight Bumrah’s brilliance.
Key to India’s Bowling Attack
Bumrah’s contributions in the Boxing Day Test have been pivotal. On the fourth day, he gave India the early breakthrough by dismissing Sam Constas. His unrelenting accuracy and lethal deliveries have kept the Australian batting lineup on the back foot.
Bumrah’s performance has once again proven why he is considered the backbone of India’s bowling attack. His ability to deliver under pressure and create breakthroughs has made him an indispensable asset.
Global Recognition
Bumrah’s record-breaking performance has sparked admiration across the cricketing world. Fans and experts alike have hailed his exceptional skills, with many calling this milestone a testament to his hard work, discipline, and talent.
A Historic Chapter for Indian Cricket
Jasprit Bumrah’s achievement is not just a personal milestone but a proud moment for Indian cricket. As the fourth Test unfolds, Bumrah’s dominance is set to play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the series.
India’s cricketing legacy continues to shine brighter with stars like Bumrah leading the charge, breaking records, and setting benchmarks that inspire generations to come.
