From searing pace to deadly precision, Bumrah’s standout moments against England reveal why he’s a force to reckon with in Test cricket
With the five-match Test series against England starting June 20, one man’s influence may weigh heavily on the minds of Indian fans—Jasprit Bumrah. Known for his unorthodox action, searing pace, and unwavering discipline, Bumrah has developed a habit of giving England sleepless nights in whites.
With 60 wickets in 14 Tests against England at a staggering average of 22.16, Bumrah hasn’t just bowled well—he’s bowled smart, cutting through top orders and tail-enders alike.
Let’s walk down memory lane and relive five of his finest Test spells against England.
The most recent gem came during the second Test of the 2024 Pataudi Trophy at Visakhapatnam. Bumrah unleashed a fiery 15.5 overs in England’s first innings, claiming six wickets for just 45 runs.
Credit: RCB
His miserly economy rate of 2.84 runs per over stifled England’s top order and turned the tide firmly in India’s favour. This spell helped India clinch the match by 106 runs, a crucial victory that showcased Bumrah’s ability to deliver under pressure on home soil.
Back in August 2021, Bumrah’s 5/64 in England’s second innings at Nottingham played a pivotal role in securing a draw. Over 20.4 overs, his accuracy stood out as he bowled with an economy of just 2.22.
Credit: ANI
Although the match ended without a result, Bumrah’s control and wicket-taking ability kept India competitive, demonstrating how he consistently challenges England’s batsmen, even when playing away from home.
It was also at Nottingham in 2018 when Bumrah’s 5/85 helped India secure a massive 203-run victory. Bowling 29 overs in England’s second innings, he attacked relentlessly, maintaining control over the run rate and taking crucial wickets.
Credit: Times Now
This spell demonstrated his growing maturity and talent for stepping up in key moments, particularly in England’s pitches, which often favour seam bowlers.
In the 1st Test at Hyderabad in January 2024, Bumrah continued to trouble England’s batters with a tight 4/41 in the second innings.
Credit: @thecricketgully
His 16.1 overs at a rate of 2.53 runs per over kept the pressure on the visitors, although England eventually secured a 28-run victory. This performance once again highlighted Bumrah’s ability to bowl tight spells that restrict runs and create wicket-taking opportunities.
In the exact Test match where Bumrah clinched 5/64 in the 2nd innings at Nottingham in 2021, he made a crucial impact in England’s first innings with a figure of 4 for 46 in 20.4 overs.
His consistent line and length and subtle variations stifled the English batters. Although this spell wasn’t sufficient to force a result, it reaffirmed his status as a bowler capable of unsettling any batting line-up.
In just 14 Tests, Bumrah has already become one of India’s most potent weapons against England. He has been relentless in every condition, with three five-wicket hauls and a strike rate of 47.2. Whether in the steamy Indian heat or under grey English skies, Bumrah has found ways to keep the batters guessing.
As India steps into a new era under Shubman Gill, the absence of Bumrah for a few Tests might create a vacuum. However, the memories of these spells are enough to underline just how big his boots are to fill.
