Jasprit Bumrah's Test cricket spells have been questioned by Alastair Cook. The Indian pacer's best bowling figures in Test cricket came in 2019, when he took 6/27 in Jamaica.
What happened?
Alastair Cook, the former England captain, raised doubts over Bumrah's ability to run through sides and bowl spells like Stuart Broad's 8/15 in the 2015 Ashes Test against Australia.
Why it matters for Jasprit Bumrah
Bumrah has 16 five-wicket hauls in Tests, but has yet to record a 10-wicket haul, with 9/86 being his best bowling figures in a match. He took 14 wickets in the T20 World Cup, including figures of 4/15 in the final against New Zealand on March 11, 2026.
What comes next?
Michael Vaughan, another former England captain, praised Bumrah, saying he was the best bowler he had ever seen, with an aura similar to that of Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi. Vaughan also said that if England had Bumrah in their XI, they could have won the T20 World Cup.
Bumrah's performance in the T20 World Cup was impressive, with a second T20 World Cup triumph after featuring in the 2024 victory, where he was adjudged the Player of the tournament. His ability to take wickets and be economical at the same time will be crucial in upcoming Test matches.
The Indian pacer's skills were compared to those of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo by Michael Vaughan. Bumrah's best bowling figures in a match are 9/86, which he achieved in 2019.
Alastair Cook's comments on Bumrah's Test cricket spells have sparked a debate about the Indian pacer's abilities. Bumrah's fans will be eager to see him prove his doubters wrong in upcoming matches.
The T20 World Cup final saw Bumrah take 4/15 against New Zealand, a performance that showcased his skills as a bowler. His ability to perform under pressure will be key in future matches.
Michael Vaughan's praise for Bumrah is a testament to the Indian pacer's skills, but Alastair Cook's comments have raised questions about his ability to bowl match-winning spells in Test cricket. Bumrah will look to answer his doubters in upcoming matches.