December 29, 2024: Jasprit Bumrah has once again proven why he is regarded as one of the finest fast bowlers in the world. On Day 4 of the Melbourne Test in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, the Indian pacer reached a historic milestone by becoming the fastest Indian to pick 200 Test wickets. He achieved this remarkable feat in just 44 matches—fewer than any other Indian bowler in history.
The 31-year-old Bumrah completed the milestone after 8484 balls of sustained excellence in Test cricket. This achievement places him among an elite group of bowlers, as he becomes the fourth-fastest bowler ever to take 200 Test wickets. The top three in this list are Waqar Younis, Dale Steyn, and Kagiso Rabada.
- Waqar Younis holds the record, reaching the 200-wicket mark in just 7725 balls.
- Dale Steyn followed closely, taking 7848 balls.
- Kagiso Rabada took 8153 balls to achieve the milestone.
Bumrah’s achievement is particularly impressive given his rapid rise in Test cricket since his debut. He reached the 200-wicket mark in 44 Test matches, an incredible pace for a pacer, especially in a format that generally favors spinners.
The pivotal moment came on Day 4, when Bumrah dismissed Australia’s Travis Head for just one run, clinching his 200th wicket in Test cricket. Currently, Bumrah is the highest wicket-taker in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, with 29 wickets to his name, showcasing his ability to thrive in high-pressure series.
Bumrah’s Test career began in 2018 against South Africa at Cape Town, and in his 44 Test appearances, he has accumulated 202 wickets at an impressive average of 19.38 and an economy rate of 2.75. He has also claimed 12 five-wicket hauls and 6 four-wicket hauls in Tests, further underscoring his dominance.
Against Australia, Bumrah has played 11 Test matches and taken 61 wickets at a remarkable average of 17.09 and an economy rate of 2.55—figures that reflect his ability to consistently trouble the Aussies.
On Day 4, Bumrah’s fiery spell in the second session gave India much-needed momentum, as Australia found themselves in a precarious position at 135/6 at Tea, with Marnus Labuschagne (65*) and Pat Cummins (21*) holding the fort. Australia still leads by 240 runs, but Bumrah’s performance is undoubtedly a turning point in this Test, as India fights to gain control.
Bumrah’s remarkable achievement of 200 Test wickets in just 44 matches speaks volumes about his skill, work ethic, and unwavering commitment to his craft. With his fiery pace and ability to deliver under pressure, he has not only secured a place in Indian cricketing history but also placed himself among the best pacers the world has ever seen.
