Jasprit Bumrah beats Joe Root, Harry Brook to win ICC Men's Test Cricketer of the Year 2024 award

Jasprit Bumrah took 71 test wickets in 2024.

The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Monday, January 27, 2025 announced the winner of the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year 2024. India vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah received the award for his outstanding performances, leading his team to remarkable victories against England and Australia in the last year.

Jasprit Bumrah pipped England stars Joe Root and Harry Brook, and Sri Lankan all-rounder Kamindu Mendis to win the award.

2024 was a tough year for the Indian Cricket Team in test cricket. The Asian giants hit a new low, suffering their first-ever home test series whitewash in a series consisting of three or more matches against New Zealand. Things got worse in December when India toured Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25, losing the series for the first time in a decade.

Despite the struggles, one name stood out consistently throughout the year – Jasprit Bumrah. The Indian pacer broke several records in test cricket and often led India’s late comebacks from dire situations.

Jasprit Bumrah’s performance in 2024

Jasprit Bumrah finished as the leading wicket-taker in test cricket, with 71 wickets in 13 matches at an average of just 14.92. Bumrah was well ahead of second-placed Gus Atkinson, who took 52 wickets in 11 games.

The Indian fast bowler played a key role in India’s success at home, helping secure series wins against England and Bangladesh. He also stepped up in tough away conditions in South Africa and Australia.

His most impressive performance came in the first test of the BGT 2024-25 in Perth, where he led India to a historic 295-run victory with outstanding match figures of 8/72. Bumrah finished the series as the highest wicket taker taking 32 wickets in nine innings. He also crossed the landmark of 200 test wickets at an average of less than 20!

Speaking to the ICC, Bumrah expressed his gratitude for receiving the award. He highlighted that test cricket has always been close to his heart, and playing the format was something he truly wanted to do.

Bumrah said, “I am really happy to be winning the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year Award. This format has always been close to my heart, and I have always wanted to play in this format. Last year was really special, full of learning and wins.“

When asked about his favorite test wicket, Bumrah mentioned that Ollie Pope’s wicket in the Vizag test during England’s tour of India was his highlight of the year. He also clarified that while he is truly honored to receive the award, he doesn’t wish to compare himself with the greats and prefers to stay grounded.

He added, “I played a lot of test cricket last year, and many wickets have been special, but the one I took against England at Vizag of Ollie Pope was really special because it changed the momentum in our favour.“

“It feels really good to receive honors from the legends of the game, but I always take things with a pinch of salt. I am very happy with the honor, but I don’t rate myself too high. My feet are on the ground, and I am really happy with the accolades that I get.”

For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.