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Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has made cricket history by breaking Wasim Akram’s record for the most Test wickets by an Asian bowler in SENA countries — South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia.
Bumrah achieved this milestone at Headingley during the first Test match against England.
He dismissed both openers, Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, to reach 147 wickets, surpassing Wasim Akram’s tally of 146 wickets, which stood for 24 years as the top record.
Previously, Wasim Akram, the former captain of Pakistan, held the record for the most Test wickets by an Asian bowler in SENA countries—South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia.
Throughout his illustrious career, Akram played 32 Test matches in these nations, amassing an impressive total of 146 wickets.
Here are the most Test wickets in SENA countries by Asian bowlers:
- Jasprit Bumrah – 147*
- Wasim Akram – 146
- Anil Kumble – 141
- Ishant Sharma – 130
- Muttiah Muralitharan – 125
Bumrah’s performance helped India stay on top, as England finished day two at 209/3, still trailing by 262 runs in reply to India’s 471.
Bumrah’s feat is even more special considering he matched Akram’s 32-match count but went one wicket further. He has become the most successful Asian bowler in SENA conditions, known for being tough for subcontinent players.
India’s team management has confirmed that Bumrah will play only three Tests in the ongoing series to manage his fitness and prevent injury. This cautious approach comes after his recovery from a serious back injury.
Speaking with Dinesh Karthik before the series, Bumrah explained why he refused to take on team captaincy duties. “I’ve spoken to the people who have managed my back,” he said. “You have to be smart about the workload.”
Bumrah’s remarkable consistency and control have made him one of the world’s top bowlers, and his record-breaking performance further solidifies his legacy.
