Jasprit Bumrah, India’s pace spearhead, has been named Wisden’s Leading Cricketer in the World for 2024 after a record-breaking year that saw him take 71 Test wickets – the most ever in a calendar year at an average of 14.92 and an unprecedented strike-rate of 30.
The 2025 edition of Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack recognised Bumrah’s phenomenal exploits with the ball, which turned the tide for India in some of the most critical moments across formats. From stunning England in Visakhapatnam with a trademark yorker to breaking South Africa’s resistance in the T20 World Cup final in Barbados, Bumrah’s interventions often proved decisive.
He took 19 wickets in four Tests against England, followed by 32 in five Tests in Australia – the most by an Indian seamer in a single series. He was also named Player of the Tournament at the T20 World Cup, finishing with 15 wickets at an economy rate of just 4.17, helping India lift their first ICC trophy in over a decade.
Off the field, Bumrah earned praise for his calm demeanour and sportsmanship, often smiling after dismissals and letting the ball “do the talking”. He also captained India in their Perth Test victory in Rohit Sharma’s absence, demonstrating leadership that complemented his bowling genius.
The accolade places Bumrah in elite company and solidifies his standing not just as the best fast bowler of his generation, but potentially among the greatest of all time.
