In a significant development for Indian cricket, Jasprit Bumrah has been named the vice-captain for the upcoming three-Test series against New Zealand, which begins on October 16, 2024, in Bengaluru. This decision comes as India prepares for its final home red-ball action before a crucial five-Test series in Australia. The New Zealand series also marks a notable return to form for Bumrah, who has taken 42 wickets in just eight Tests since his comeback from injury in August 2023.
New Zealand Series: Jasprit Bumrah Steps Up as Leader in the Absence of Shami
India’s squad for the New Zealand series remains largely unchanged from their recent home Test campaign against Bangladesh in September. Notable absences include veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami, who is still recovering from an ankle injury sustained last year. Shami last played during the ODI World Cup final in November 2023 and has since been undergoing rehabilitation. With Shami sidelined, Bumrah’s leadership role gains greater importance, especially considering his likely elevation to captaincy in the upcoming Australia series.
Jasprit Bumrah’s Leadership Journey
Bumrah is no stranger to leadership roles, having captained India once in a one-off Test against England in 2022 when Rohit Sharma tested positive for COVID-19. Additionally, he served as vice-captain during India’s two-Test home series against Sri Lanka in March 2022, and later during their tours of South Africa and England in the 2023-24 season. His promotion to vice-captain for the New Zealand series is a clear sign of the selectors’ trust in his leadership capabilities, especially with doubts lingering over Rohit Sharma’s availability.
Focus on Jasprit Bumrah’s Stellar Form
Jasprit Bumrah has been in scintillating form since his return to international cricket in August 2023. He has claimed an impressive 42 wickets from eight Tests, with a phenomenal average of just 14.69. His performance against Bangladesh earlier this year was a testament to his dominance, where he reclaimed his No. 1 ranking in the ICC Test bowler standings. With 170 wickets in 38 Tests at an average of 20.18, Bumrah’s contributions in red-ball cricket continue to be crucial for India’s success.
Charting India’s Course to the World Test Championship Final
India currently leads the World Test Championship (WTC) points table with a strong 74.24 percentage points from 11 Test matches. Securing victories in each of the eight Tests left—three at home versus New Zealand and five away against Australia—might raise their standing to 85.09%. However, the realistic goal for India is to secure enough points to ensure qualification for the WTC final, regardless of other teams’ results. With Bumrah in top form, the Indian team’s chances of finishing the season strong look highly promising.
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