Aaron Lauds Bumrah, Suggests He Rivals Wasim Akram

Former Indian fast bowler Varun Aaron has ignited discussions in cricket circles by suggesting that Jasprit Bumrah is superior to Wasim Akram. This declaration follows Bumrah’s impressive five-wicket performance against England in the inaugural Test at Headingley.

In a recent interview, Aaron commended Bumrah’s display, asserting that such accomplishments position him alongside the esteemed Pakistani legend.

“To label him a genius would be an understatement,” Aaron stated.

“He has now surpassed Wasim Akram concerning wickets secured in SENA countries. This, to me, is significant because Wasim was arguably the finest fast bowler ever—and Bumrah is virtually on par, if not exceeding him,” he elaborated.

Aaron further emphasized that Bumrah attained this milestone in notably fewer innings than Akram, underscoring his profound influence.

Bumrah once again distinguished himself as India’s premier performer, capturing 5 wickets in the initial innings—dismissing Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Chris Woakes, and Josh Tongue.

His contributions enabled India to secure a marginal first-innings advantage and facilitated his breaking several records.

With his Headingley feat, Bumrah overtook Wasim Akram to become the Asian bowler boasting the highest number of Test wickets in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia).

His present total is 150 wickets in a mere 60 innings, overshadowing some of the most celebrated figures in Asian cricket history.

Most Test wickets by Asian bowlers in SENA

The 31-year-old also equaled Kapil Dev’s longstanding record for the most five-wicket hauls in overseas Tests by an Indian bowler.

This marked Bumrah’s 12th five-wicket haul, achieved in only 34 Tests—whereas Kapil reached the equivalent figure in 66 matches.

Most five-wicket hauls by Indian bowlers in away Tests: