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Jasprit Bumrah stands tall as one of India’s premier bowling talents, showcasing his prowess at the recent T20 World Cup where his contributions were pivotal in India’s victorious campaign. The 30-year-old speedster from Ahmedabad claimed 15 crucial wickets across eight matches, earning him the prestigious Player of the Series accolade. Since his international debut in January 2016, Bumrah has carved a unique niche for himself, becoming the only bowler to top the ICC rankings across all three formats of the game. Earlier this year, his stellar performances during the India-England Test series further cemented his status as a global bowling sensation.
Despite widespread acclaim from cricketing legends and pundits, some recent remarks from fellow Indian pace bowler Mohammed Shami have sparked debate. In a recent interview, when asked about India’s top bowler, Shami notably diverted attention from Bumrah, instead highlighting his own contributions to the team’s success. This intriguing perspective adds a new layer to discussions about India’s bowling arsenal, highlighting the depth and diversity within the national team’s formidable lineup.
“Abhi? Main he manta hoon,” Shami said when asked, “India ka sabse behtar bowler kaun?” by Shubhankar Mishra on his YouTube channel.
“Humari jo unit rahi hai, mai, Jassi (Bumrah), Ishant bhi usme tha, Bhuvneshwar bhi usme tha, Umesh Yadav. Jo ye 5-6 the naa hum ek saath, mujhe lagta hai duniya ki kisi unit ne itna enjoy nahi kiya hoga jo is unit ne kiya hai. Main to maanta hoon.. main 1 or No. 2 pe believe nahi karta. As a person, as a sportsman, as a unit, jo meri life mei ye 5-6 logo ki unit bani thi na one of the best thi,” Shami added.
Shami, who began his international career on January 6, 2013, in an ODI clash against Pakistan in Delhi, has been a stalwart for India over the past 11 years. During this time, the 33-year-old fast bowler has showcased his skill across 64 Test matches, 101 ODIs, and 23 T20Is, accumulating an impressive tally of 448 dismissals. Notably, he holds the distinction of being India’s highest wicket-taker in ODI World Cup history.
In contrast, Jasprit Bumrah has swiftly risen through the ranks since his debut on January 6, 2016, against Australia in Sydney. Across 195 international appearances to date, the 30-year-old has accounted for the dismissals of 397 batsmen, underscoring his impact and effectiveness on the global cricketing stage.
