Sports: In a moment of immense pride for Indian cricket, Jasprit Bumrah has etched his name in history by being named Wisden’s Leading Men’s Cricketer in the World for 2024. This prestigious recognition marks a phenomenal year for the fast-bowling maestro, who also achieved the unprecedented feat of becoming the first bowler in Test cricket history to reach the 200-wicket milestone with an average below the remarkable threshold of 20. Throughout the year, Bumrah’s exceptional talent yielded a staggering 86 wickets across all formats, achieved at an astonishing average of just 13.
Bumrah’s brilliance shone brightest during India’s memorable Border-Gavaskar Trophy tour of Australia, where his fiery spells resulted in 32 crucial wickets at an incredible average of 13.06, dismantling opposition batsmen with his pace and precision. Furthermore, he played an instrumental role in India’s triumphant campaign at the T20 World Cup in the Caribbean, leading the bowling attack with vigor and securing the coveted title for the nation in June.
Despite facing a setback with a recurring back injury that sidelined him for the Champions Trophy—his second significant layoff following surgery in March 2023—Bumrah’s resilience saw him make a much-anticipated return to competitive cricket in the ongoing Indian Premier League, much to the delight of fans and teammates alike.
Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, Smriti Mandhana joined Bumrah in creating a historic double for India, as she was named Wisden’s Leading Women’s Cricketer in the World. The dynamic opening batter enjoyed a record-breaking 2024, amassing an astounding 1,659 runs across all formats of the game. This monumental tally stands as the highest ever recorded by a woman in a single calendar year of international cricket. Her remarkable run included four stellar centuries in One Day Internationals and a commanding 149-run Test innings against South Africa, contributing significantly to India’s emphatic ten-wicket victory.
The global recognition extended beyond India, with West Indies’ Nicholas Pooran being acknowledged as Wisden’s Leading T20 Cricketer in the World. The explosive left-handed batsman showcased his prowess in the shortest format by scoring 464 runs in 21 T20 international matches at an electrifying strike rate of 142.33. His stellar form has continued into the current IPL season, where he currently holds the position of the second-highest run-scorer, accumulating 368 runs at an impressive average exceeding 50.
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