New Delhi, June 10 – As India prepares to take on England in the upcoming Test series beginning June 20 at Leeds, fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah stands on the brink of achieving a historic milestone. With just one wicket shy of equalling Pakistan’s legendary pacer Wasim Akram’s record in SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia) nations, Bumrah could soon become the highest wicket-taking Asian bowler in these countries.
Wasim Akram claimed 146 wickets in SENA countries during his career. Bumrah, currently at 145 wickets, needs just two more to surpass Akram and set a new benchmark for Asian bowlers in the most challenging fast-bowling conditions.
The pitches in South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia are known for their pace and bounce, posing a significant challenge even for top bowlers. Yet, Bumrah has consistently delivered impactful performances across these venues. In England, he has played nine Tests, securing 37 wickets in 17 innings. In South Africa, he has taken 38 wickets in eight Tests. His outings in New Zealand have yielded six wickets from two Tests, while in Australia, he has been particularly impressive with 64 wickets from 12 Tests.
As per agency report, since making his debut in January 2018, Bumrah has played 45 Tests, collecting 205 wickets in 86 innings. Notably, he has claimed five or more wickets in an innings on 13 occasions, underscoring his consistency and match-winning ability.
India, led by young captain Shubman Gill in the absence of seniors Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, is keen to end its 18-year-long Test series drought in England. The last series win on English soil came in 2007 under the leadership of Rahul Dravid. Since then, India has toured England four times without clinching a series victory.
With Bumrah leading the pace attack and a fresh leadership approach, India will be hoping to make history — both as a team and through individual achievements on the field.
