Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has sparked an important conversation in the cricketing world by voicing his opinion on the stature and respect accorded to Jasprit Bumrah. Speaking candidly, Ashwin expressed a desire to see Bumrah held in the same regard as Indian legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma. His comments come at a time when Bumrah is being widely hailed as one of the finest fast bowlers India has ever produced, yet Ashwin believes his contributions are still undervalued in the larger narrative.
“I really wish that we go that route,” Ashwin said, referring to honoring Bumrah’s place in Indian cricket history. “As much as we do for Rohit Sharma, or Virat Kohli, or Sachin Tendulkar, we don’t do the same for Jassi,” he added, using the popular nickname for the star pacer. These words carry weight, not only because of Ashwin’s own stature as one of India’s greatest spinners, but because they echo a sentiment increasingly shared by fans and pundits alike.
Jasprit Bumrah’s journey in international cricket has been nothing short of extraordinary. From his unorthodox bowling action to his steely nerves under pressure, Bumrah has transformed India’s fast bowling legacy. He has delivered match-winning spells across all formats, often on pitches that offer little support to pacers. In a country where spinners have traditionally hogged the spotlight, Bumrah has not just broken the mould—he has redefined it.
Ashwin’s remarks underline a deeper issue in the way cricketing greatness is often measured. While batters like Tendulkar and Kohli are rightly celebrated for their centuries and run-scoring feats, bowlers—especially pacers—often receive less adulation despite making equally decisive contributions. Bumrah has consistently delivered for India, from his searing yorkers in white-ball cricket to his relentless spells in Tests on foreign soil. His five-wicket hauls in England, Australia, and South Africa have been pivotal in securing historic wins for India.
Moreover, Bumrah temperament, fitness, and leadership qualities have stood out. His ability to remain calm under pressure, read the game, and take responsibility in crucial moments places him in an elite category of modern cricketers. His performances in the recent Test series, as well as his role in India’s World Test Championship campaign, further cement his status as a generational talent.
Ashwin’s call is not just for public recognition but also a broader cultural shift in how we perceive and appreciate contributions beyond batting. It’s a call to rewrite the way greatness is framed in Indian cricket, to ensure players like Bumrah are not just admired during their peak but revered for decades to come.
As Bumrah continues to lead India’s bowling attack, now even serving as vice-captain in some formats, it’s imperative that his legacy is celebrated with the same intensity and respect as those of India’s batting icons. Ashwin’s words are a timely reminder that in a game dominated by narratives of runs and centuries, the art of bowling—particularly pace bowling—deserves its rightful pedestal. And Jasprit Bumrah, without a doubt, belongs at the very top of it.