Jasprit Bumrah's phenomenal bowling throughout the T20 World Cup had everyone singing his praises. Star batsman Virat Kohli even jokingly said he'd be the first to sign a petition declaring Jasprit Bumrah a ‘national treasure’ or the "8th Wonder of the World."
Jasprit Bumrah, a national treasure
Bumrah's performance was truly historic – he finished the tournament with a staggering 15 wickets at an average of just 8.26, and an even more impressive economy rate of 4.17, the best among bowlers with at least 20 overs bowled. These numbers speak volumes about his impact on the team's victory. During Team India's felicitation ceremony at the Wankhede stadiu, renowned cricketer presenter Gaurav Kapoor asked Virat Kohli:
"I am thinking of signing a petition to declare Jasprit Bumrah as a national treasure. Will you sign it?"
Kohli took no time in responding as he said, "I will sign it right now."
Kohli didn't stop there as he went on to heape praise on Bumrah.
"I like to name a guy who brought us back in this T20 World Cup again, again and again in every difficult situation; this is Jasprit Bumrah. Jasprit Bumrah is a once-in-a-generation bowler. We are lucky that he plays for us," Kohli added.
Bumrah's phenomenal bowling throughout the tournament earned him the coveted Player of the Tournament award. This prestigious recognition added him to the company of his teammate, Virat Kohli, a two-time winner himself.
The final against South Africa in Bridgetown became the stage for Bumrah's brilliance. After India set a target of 176 runs, Bumrah entered the bowling attack early in the second over. He displayed impressive control, saving his best delivery for later. With his third ball, he crafted a dream dismissal of Reeza Hendricks. Despite his bowling action hinting at an inswinger for the right-handed batsman, Bumrah defied expectations by swinging the ball away at pace. This unexpected movement completely squared up Hendricks, sending his off-stump flying. This wicket was a turning point in the match, showcasing Bumrah's strategic thinking and exceptional execution under pressure.
The tension was thick as South Africa required just 21 runs from the final 15 balls. Enter Jasprit Bumrah, once again rising to the occasion. He delivered a scorching yorker that snuck between Marco Jansen's bat and pad, shattering the stumps and leaving the Proteas six wickets down. This dismissal effectively sealed South Africa's fate, putting them too far behind to realistically chase down the target. Bumrah finished with an incredible bowling spell of 2/18 in his four overs, his accuracy and control proving instrumental in India's thrilling seven-run victory. Bumrah's exceptional performance wasn't just about this single match. His consistent brilliance throughout the tournament cemented his place in cricketing history. His ability to deliver clutch performances under immense pressure has earned him the respect and admiration of cricketing legends and fans worldwide. He has truly established himself as one of the greatest bowlers of modern cricket.
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