Cricket has seen many legendary fast bowlers, but few have made an impact like Jasprit Bumrah and Glenn McGrath. Representing India and Australia respectively, both bowlers have showcased exceptional skills and unique styles that have earned them accolades worldwide.
This article provides a comprehensive comparison of their statistics after 45 Test matches, highlighting their performances, strengths, and contributions to the game of cricket.
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Overview of the Bowlers
Glenn McGrath
Glenn McGrath is often regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers in cricket history. Known for his remarkable accuracy, consistency, and ability to exploit conditions, McGrath was a vital part of Australia’s dominant cricket team during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
His relentless approach to bowling made him a nightmare for batters across the globe.
Jasprit Bumrah
Jasprit Bumrah burst onto the international scene in 2016 and quickly established himself as India’s premier fast bowler. With his unique bowling action and ability to bowl yorkers at will, Bumrah has become a key player for India in all formats of the game.
His performances in Test cricket have been particularly impressive, making him one of the most feared bowlers in modern cricket.
Key Statistics Comparison
To understand the impact of both bowlers, let’s delve into their key statistics after 45 Test matches.
| Statistic | Jasprit Bumrah | Glenn McGrath |
| Matches Played | 45 | 45 |
| Wickets Taken | 205 | 202 |
| Bowling Average | 19.40 | 23.45 |
| Strike Rate | 42.10 | 53.24 |
| Five-Wicket Hauls | 13 | 11 |
Analysis of Key Metrics
Wickets Taken
After 45 Tests, Jasprit Bumrah has taken 205 wickets, slightly edging out Glenn McGrath, who has claimed 202 wickets. This statistic reflects Bumrah’s effectiveness as a wicket-taker right from his debut, showcasing his ability to dismiss batsmen consistently.
Bowling Average
Bumrah’s bowling average stands at an impressive 19.40, significantly lower than McGrath’s 23.45. A lower bowling average indicates that Bumrah concedes fewer runs per wicket taken, which is a testament to his skill in maintaining tight lines and lengths.
Strike Rate
Bumrah also leads with a strike rate of 42.10, compared to McGrath’s 53.24. A lower strike rate means that Bumrah takes wickets more frequently within fewer deliveries, highlighting his effectiveness in breaking partnerships and applying pressure on batsmen.
Performance Breakdown: Home vs Away
Home Performance
- Jasprit Bumrah: In his home Tests (12 matches), Bumrah has taken 47 wickets.
- Glenn McGrath: In contrast, McGrath played 24 home Tests, claiming 111 wickets.
McGrath’s dominance at home underscores his ability to exploit familiar conditions effectively.
Away Performance
- Jasprit Bumrah: In away Tests (33 matches), he has taken an impressive 158 wickets.
- Glenn McGrath: McGrath played 21 away Tests, taking 91 wickets.
Bumrah’s performance away from home is particularly noteworthy, demonstrating his adaptability and skill on varied pitches around the world.
Best Bowling Figures
Both bowlers have had standout performances that highlight their abilities:
- Bumrah’s Best Figures: His best bowling figures are 6/27 against the West Indies, showcasing his capacity to dismantle batting line-ups.
- McGrath’s Best Figures: McGrath achieved best figures of 8/38 against England at Lord’s, emphasizing his prowess in crucial matches.
Bowling Styles and Techniques
Glenn McGrath’s Approach
McGrath was known for his relentless line-and-length bowling combined with subtle variations in pace. His ability to swing the ball both ways made him exceptionally dangerous on seaming pitches. He often relied on building pressure through dot balls rather than sheer speed.
Jasprit Bumrah’s Unique Style
Bumrah’s unorthodox action sets him apart from traditional fast bowlers. His ability to deliver yorkers consistently and bowl at high speeds makes him a formidable opponent. Additionally, his variations—including slower balls and bouncers—add depth to his arsenal, allowing him to adapt to different match situations effectively.
Impact on Their Teams
Both bowlers have significantly influenced their respective teams’ successes:
- McGrath’s Legacy: As part of Australia’s golden era, McGrath contributed to numerous Ashes victories and World Cup triumphs.
- Bumrah’s Role: Since his debut, Bumrah has been instrumental in India’s Test successes overseas, including historic wins in Australia and England.
Conclusion
The comparison between Jasprit Bumrah and Glenn McGrath reveals two exceptional talents who have excelled in their craft under different circumstances. While both have impressive statistics after 45 Tests, Bumrah’s current numbers suggest he is on a trajectory that could see him surpass many records set by legends like McGrath. As cricket continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to observe how Bumrah’s career unfolds and how he builds upon the legacy left by greats like Glenn McGrath.
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