Jasprit Bumrah's rise to the top of world cricket is a remarkable story. Coming from a humble background in Ahmedabad, Bumrah transformed from playing gully cricket to becoming one of the most feared fast bowlers.
The Sporting News takes a look at his journey, that had many ups and downs, with a crucial turning point being a district-level match that changed his life.
Early struggles and dreams
Growing up in Ahmedabad, Bumrah faced many challenges. After losing his father early, his mother worked hard to provide for the family.
Bumrah spent his childhood playing cricket in the narrow spaces of his apartment complex. Like many young boys, he dreamed of representing India, but he struggled to make progress in the competitive world of cricket.
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Bumrah studied at Nirman High School and kept pushing himself, but by 2012, he was ready to give up cricket. He had even thought about moving to Canada for a different life. However, fate had other plans.
The game that changed everything
In 2013, Bumrah got a chance to play in a district-level match. The match was a trial for selection into Gujarat’s state team for the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament.
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Bumrah only got to play one game, but his performance was enough to catch the attention of selectors. His impressive bowling earned him a spot on the state team.
This single match was a turning point. From almost quitting cricket, Bumrah was now on the path to success.
The breakthrough at Syed Mushtaq Ali tournament
Bumrah made his mark in the 2013 Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament. It was here that John Wright, the coach of Mumbai Indians, noticed Bumrah’s unique bowling style.
Wright saw potential in Bumrah and recruited him for the Indian Premier League (IPL). This was the start of Bumrah’s journey to international cricket.
IPL debut and national team selection
In the same year, Bumrah made his IPL debut for Mumbai Indians. He impressed everyone by taking three wickets in his first game.
His stiff-arm action and ability to bowl deadly yorkers made him a standout bowler. Soon, the national selectors took notice, and Bumrah was called up to the Indian team in 2016.
His debut in an ODI against Australia, followed by a T20I debut, set him on the path to becoming one of India’s most reliable fast bowlers.
The rise to stardom
By 2018, Bumrah had made his Test debut against South Africa. His exceptional ability to bowl in all formats made him a major bowler for India.
His consistency and wicket-taking ability earned him respect worldwide. Despite battling injuries, Bumrah remains one of the most dangerous bowlers in cricket today.
Jasprit Bumrah’s journey from playing a district-level match to becoming one of the best fast bowlers is inspiring. His determination and hard work helped him overcome many challenges. Today, he is a testament to how one opportunity, if seized, can change everything.