Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has once again claimed the number one position in the ICC Test bowler rankings, surpassing his teammate Ravichandran Ashwin. Bumrah’s rise to the top spot came after his stellar performance in the Test series against Bangladesh, where he took six wickets in total, leading India to a commanding seven-wicket win in Kanpur. Ashwin, however, showed no signs of disappointment and responded with a supportive three-word message on social media, proving the bond between India’s two top bowlers.
Bumrah’s Stellar Performance in Kanpur
Jasprit Bumrah’s performance during the second Test against Bangladesh was nothing short of impressive. He took three wickets in each innings, ensuring that India had complete control of the match. This victory not only sealed the series for India but also helped Bumrah regain his number one spot in the ICC Test bowler rankings. With a rating of 870 points, Bumrah now sits at the top, just one point ahead of Ravichandran Ashwin.
Ashwin also had a strong performance in the match, claiming five wickets. However, it was Bumrah’s consistent ability to take crucial wickets that helped him surpass Ashwin in the rankings. The two bowlers have been neck and neck for some time now, but this latest achievement for Bumrah is a testament to his growing dominance in world cricket.
Ashwin’s Supportive Reaction
Despite being overtaken by his teammate, Ashwin did not hesitate to express his support for Bumrah. In an Instagram story, Ashwin posted a congratulatory message with the words, “You belong here,” acknowledging Bumrah’s well-deserved achievement. This reaction highlights the camaraderie within the Indian team, where players celebrate each other’s success.
Ashwin, known for his competitive spirit and remarkable skills as an all-rounder, has been a pillar in India’s bowling attack for years. His response to Bumrah’s rise shows that personal rankings take a backseat to team spirit and unity.
Yashasvi Jaiswal Shines as India Dominates
India’s series win over Bangladesh wasn’t just about Bumrah and Ashwin. Young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal also made headlines with his impressive batting performances. Jaiswal scored 72 and 51 in the rain-affected Test, which earned him the Player of the Match award. His consistent performances also saw him rise to third place in the ICC Test batter rankings, reaching a new career-high rating.
Jaiswal’s meteoric rise in international cricket has been one of the most exciting stories for Indian cricket. His ability to handle pressure at the top of the order and deliver match-winning performances has made him a key player for India in the Test format. With only England’s Joe Root and New Zealand’s Kane Williamson ahead of him, Jaiswal is now considered one of the top Test batters in the world.
India’s Path to the World Test Championship Final
India’s dominant win over Bangladesh not only helped their players climb the ICC rankings but also strengthened their position at the top of the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. With this series sweep, India has taken a significant step toward qualifying for their third consecutive WTC final.
The team’s all-round performance in the series, with strong contributions from both the batting and bowling departments, has put them in a commanding position. Bumrah’s return to form, combined with Ashwin’s consistency and Jaiswal’s rise as a top-order batter, gives India a balanced and formidable lineup as they aim for more success in the WTC.
Other Movers in the ICC Rankings
While India dominated the headlines, there were other notable changes in the ICC rankings following the recent round of international matches. Sri Lankan spinner Prabath Jayasuriya moved up to seventh in the Test bowler rankings, thanks to his 18-wicket haul against New Zealand. His Player of the Series performance earned him a new career-high rating, making him one of the top spinners in the world.
In the Test all-rounder rankings, Bangladesh’s Mehidy Hasan also made a significant leap, moving up two places to fifth. Meanwhile, India’s Ravindra Jadeja continues to hold a healthy lead at the top of the all-rounder rankings.
On the batting front, Virat Kohli made his way back into the top 10 after his contributions of 47 and 29* in the series against Bangladesh. Kohli’s rise in the rankings reflects his ongoing ability to perform in crucial matches, and his return to form is a positive sign for India as they prepare for future challenges.
Changes in White-Ball Cricket Rankings
The latest ICC rankings update also brought changes in the white-ball formats. Australia’s Steve Smith gained one spot to move to 20th in the ODI batter rankings after his series against England. Meanwhile, England’s Harry Brook and Ben Duckett made significant moves in the rankings, with Brook rising 73 spots to 50th, and Duckett climbing 30 places to 54th.
On the ODI bowler rankings, England’s Adil Rashid and Jofra Archer made noticeable improvements, moving up four and 16 places, respectively. In the T20I rankings, South Africa’s Reeza Hendricks gained five spots to move to 11th among batters, while Nepal’s Dipendra Singh Airee achieved a new career-high rating, moving up four places to second on the all-rounder rankings.
Conclusion: A New Era for Indian Cricket?
Jasprit Bumrah’s return to the top of the ICC Test bowler rankings is a testament to his hard work and consistency. Supported by teammates like Ravichandran Ashwin, who graciously acknowledged Bumrah’s success, Indian cricket continues to thrive on both individual and team achievements. With young talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal rising through the ranks and veterans like Virat Kohli finding their form, India is well-positioned to dominate world cricket in the coming years.
As India sets its sights on the World Test Championship final, the team’s unity and depth will be crucial. Bumrah’s achievement is just one of many success stories emerging from a team that has its eyes on greatness. Stay updated with the latest from IPL365.
