Indian star pacer Jasprit Bumrah once again showcased his incisive bowling on the second day of the Leeds Test. In the first innings against England, Bumrah claimed three crucial wickets, playing a key role in propelling Team India to a b position.
IND vs ENG 1st Test: On the second day of the first Test match against England in Leeds, Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah created history. He achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the Asian bowler with the most Test wickets in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia). Bumrah surpassed the legendary Wasim Akram of Pakistan, setting a new benchmark.
Bumrah's Explosive Entry into the Series
Jasprit Bumrah's role in this Test series against England was already considered crucial, but he proved himself within the first two days of the Leeds Test. While the Indian batsmen propelled the team to 471 runs in the first innings, Bumrah's three wickets decimated the English batting line-up.
In England's first innings, Bumrah dismissed Jack Crawley, Ben Duckett, and Joe Root. At stumps, England reached 209/3, still trailing India by 262 runs.
Bumrah Tops SENA Wicket Charts with 147 Wickets
Bumrah has now taken 147 wickets in SENA countries throughout his career. Previously, Pakistan's legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram held the record with 146 wickets in these four nations. Bumrah surpassed him to claim the top spot. This achievement is particularly noteworthy because Bumrah accomplished this feat in just 27 Test matches, while Akram required 39 matches to reach a similar tally. Below is a list of the top Asian bowlers in SENA countries by wickets:
- Jasprit Bumrah - 147 wickets (India)
- Wasim Akram - 146 wickets (Pakistan)
- Anil Kumble - 141 wickets (India)
- Ishant Sharma - 130 wickets (India)
Bumrah's Dominance in the Leeds Test
Bumrah once again proved why he is considered one of the most dangerous bowlers of this generation. He dealt a significant blow to England by dismissing Jack Crawley in the slips in the very first over of the Test match. He further added to England's woes by dismissing Ben Duckett (62 runs) and Joe Root (28 runs), giving India a firm grip on the match.
Bumrah's bowling displayed a potent mix of pace, swing, and accuracy, leaving the English batsmen flustered. His dismissal of Joe Root, in particular, was a classic example of his outswing bowling prowess.
Jadeja's Drop and England's Fightback
However, India suffered a setback when Ravindra Jadeja dropped Ben Duckett's catch on 15. Duckett capitalized on this reprieve, partnering with Ollie Pope for a 122-run stand. But Bumrah eventually bowled Duckett out, securing a crucial breakthrough for his team. Jasprit Bumrah made his Test debut in 2018 and has since emerged as India's leading fast bowler. Notably, he has played most of his Test matches overseas, achieving these historic figures in away conditions.
