In a recent discussion, India’s renowned spinner R Ashwin showered praise on fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, highlighting him as one of the team’s most valuable players, even over seasoned batters like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Bumrah has been the lynchpin of the Indian pace attack for several years, establishing himself as one of the finest all-format bowlers globally. His ability to deliver under pressure has been pivotal, most notably during the 2024 T20 World Cup final, where his economical bowling spell turned the match in India’s favor.

Bumrah’s rise to prominence began during the IPL 2013 season when his unorthodox bowling action and impressive debut performance, which included dismissing Virat Kohli, caught everyone’s attention. Consistent performances in both IPL and domestic cricket paved the way for his national team debut in 2016. Since then, Bumrah has become an indispensable part of India’s bowling lineup.

Ashwin, who achieved the milestone of 500 Test wickets in February this year, recounted Bumrah’s recent visit to Chennai. During this visit, Bumrah received immense admiration and respect, akin to the adulation fans typically reserve for superstar Rajnikanth. Ashwin noted that Chennai fans have a special appreciation for bowlers and described Bumrah as the Indian cricket team’s MVP.

“We Chennai people appreciate bowlers a lot. He was here for an event as a chief guest 4-5 days ago. We gave him a Rajni treatment. We treat bowlers very nicely. He should be treated as a champion. I don’t want to name, but Jasprit Bumrah is the most valuable Indian cricketer right now,” Ashwin said on Vimal Kumar’s YouTube channel.

Ashwin emphasized that while India has historically been a batsman-centric nation, it’s heartening to see a bowler of Bumrah’s caliber getting the recognition he deserves. He pointed out that Bumrah is a once-in-a-generation talent and deserves even more celebration for his contributions to Indian cricket.

“India has always been a country dominated by batsmen, and that’s unlikely to change. But I am so glad that we are celebrating Jasprit Bumrah. Jasprit Bumrah is a once-in-a-generation bowler. We should celebrate him even more,” Ashwin concluded.

Bumrah is set to make a much-anticipated return to the national team following his match-winning heroics in the 2024 T20 World Cup final against Aiden Markram’s side. He is included in the squad for the first Test match against Bangladesh, which will take place at the MA Chidambaram Stadium next week.