ICC Men’s Award: Jasprit Bumrah wins ICC Men’s Player of the Month title for December 2024: Indian cricketer and veteran fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has received the ICC Men’s Player of the Month title for December 2024.
His exceptional performance during the challenging tour of Australia has earned him this prestigious honour. Bumrah’s ability to shine under pressure and consistently produce match-winning performances makes him a great player on the global stage.
Jasprit Bumrah’s unmatched performance in December 2024
December 2024 turned out to be a great month for Bumrah, who dominated with the ball in the three Tests against Australia. He showcased his unmatched skill and accuracy, bagging 22 wickets at an average of 14.22.
Bumrah’s contribution was the backbone of India’s bowling attack, often single-handedly keeping the team competitive in challenging conditions. His exceptional performance played a key role in defining the series.
Adelaide Test: A promising start
The tour started with the first Test in Adelaide, where Bumrah gave an outstanding effort to kick off the series. In order to keep India in the match and reduce Australia’s lead, he took four wickets in the first innings.
Key highlights:
• Exceptional use of line and length to trouble the Australian batsmen.
• Dismissing key players at crucial junctures.
Although India could not capitalise on Bumrah’s efforts, his performance laid the foundation for what was to come.
Brisbane Test: Bumrah’s brilliant bowling
Bumrah bowled brilliantly in the second Test in Brisbane. His brilliant spell in the first innings resulted in six wickets, which completely demolished Australia’s batting lineup.
Match stats:
• 1st innings: 6 wickets.
• 2nd innings: 3 wickets.
• Match total: 9 wickets.
Despite the rain-affected match ending in a draw, Bumrah’s ability to turn the tide in India’s favour was evident.
Boxing Day Test: Bumrah shines in Melbourne
Bumrah once again performed brilliantly in the third Test match played in Melbourne, popularly known as the Boxing Day Test.
First innings:
• Bumrah took 4 wickets in what was another disappointing bowling effort from the Indian team.
Second innings:
• His five-wicket haul helped Australia bowl out for 234.
Even though India lost by 184 runs, Bumrah’s brilliant batting was a saving grace for the team.
Historic achievements achieved by Bumrah
During the series, Jasprit Bumrah achieved several significant achievements, which further cemented his status as one of the greatest bowlers in modern cricket.
1. 200th Test wicket
Bumrah became the fourth-fastest bowler to take 200 Test wickets in terms of balls.
2. Unique record
He holds the distinction of being the first bowler in history to take 200 Test wickets at an average of less than 20.
These achievements highlight Bumrah’s consistency and dominance in the longest format of the game.
Comparison with other contenders
Bumrah faced stiff competition from Pat Cummins and Dane Paterson for the ICC Men’s Player of the Month award. However, his ability to put up impressive performances in every match set him apart from the others.
Pat Cummins
Although Cummins had a strong series, his performance lacked the consistency and game-changing impact that Bumrah brings to the table.
Dane Paterson
Patterson showed flashes of brilliance but couldn’t match Bumrah’s dominance in several games.
The impact of Bumrah’s performance
Bumrah’s brilliance kept India in contention throughout the series, even in matches where the team was struggling. His ability to perform well under pressure and pick up crucial wickets made him the standout player of the series.
What makes Jasprit Bumrah special? Jasprit Bumrah is no ordinary bowler. His unique action, deadly yorker and ability to adapt to any pitch or situation make him a nightmare for batsmen.
ICC Men’s Player of the Month Award
The ICC Men’s Player of the Month Award recognises outstanding performances in international cricket. For December 2024, Bumrah’s consistency and impact make him the obvious choice for this honour.
