In a moment of pride for Indian cricket, two of the country’s brightest stars, Jasprit Bumrah and Smriti Mandhana, have earned top honors in the prestigious Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack for 2024. The renowned cricket publication, widely regarded as the “Bible of Cricket,” released its annual edition on Tuesday, and it features Bumrah and Mandhana as among the standout cricketers of the year. Their inclusion not only highlights their individual achievements but also reinforces the growing global influence of Indian cricket in the international arena.
Jasprit Bumrah, India’s premier fast bowler, has earned a well-deserved place in the Almanack, recognized for his extraordinary performances in all formats of the game. Since his debut, Bumrah has consistently delivered match-winning performances, establishing himself as one of the most feared bowlers in world cricket. His unique ability to bowl yorkers with pinpoint accuracy, especially in the death overs, has made him a key asset for India in limited-overs cricket. His impact in Test cricket, where he has emerged as one of the best fast bowlers in recent times, was also highlighted by Wisden. Bumrah’s tenacity, consistency, and mental toughness have seen him lead India’s fast bowling attack in some of the most challenging conditions, including the famous Border-Gavaskar Trophy series win in Australia.
For Smriti Mandhana, the recognition marks another milestone in her illustrious career. The left-handed opening batter has been a standout performer for India in women’s cricket, making significant contributions in both domestic and international cricket. Mandhana’s elegant stroke play, combined with her consistency at the top of the order, has made her one of the most prominent names in the women’s game. Her inclusion in Wisden’s 2024 edition is a testament to her stellar performances in the past year, where she played a crucial role in India’s successes across multiple series and tournaments. Mandhana’s contributions have been key to the growth and visibility of women’s cricket, as she continues to inspire a new generation of cricketers.
The Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack is one of the most respected publications in the cricketing world, and being included in its pages is an honor few players achieve. It is often seen as a mark of excellence and a recognition of a player’s impact on the sport. The Almanack is known for not only focusing on performances but also for celebrating cricketers who have played a significant role in the development of the game.
Bumrah’s and Mandhana’s inclusion comes after a year in which Indian cricket continued to make waves on the global stage. While Bumrah’s leadership in the fast bowling department was pivotal in securing key victories for India, Mandhana’s consistency with the bat and her leadership in guiding the Indian women’s team to greater heights have been equally impressive. Both players have become symbols of excellence in their respective roles, setting benchmarks for aspiring cricketers around the world.
This recognition is also reflective of the growing prominence of Indian cricketers on the global stage. With the Indian Premier League (IPL) continuing to serve as a platform for cricketers to showcase their talent, and with the increasing global competitiveness of both men’s and women’s cricket, players like Bumrah and Mandhana are not just representing India but are setting trends and influencing cricketing standards worldwide.
In conclusion, the acknowledgment of Jasprit Bumrah and Smriti Mandhana in the 2024 edition of Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack is a proud moment for Indian cricket. Their hard work, commitment, and exceptional performances continue to inspire millions and will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy in the history of the game. As they continue to excel, their inclusion in the Almanack is a fitting tribute to their contributions to the sport.