Jasprit Bumrah’s stellar performance in the ongoing Test series against Australia has put him in the league of iconic Indian captains who have delivered extraordinary bowling performances Down Under. Be it Kapil Dev or Anil Kumble, Indian captains have often risen to the occasion in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Here are the three best bowling figures by Indian captains in Australia Tests:
Kapil Dev: 8 for 106
- Match Details:
- Series: India Tour of Australia, 1985-86
- Venue: Adelaide Oval
- Date: December 13-17, 1985
Kapil Dev’s phenomenal 8-wicket haul for just 106 runs at the Adelaide Oval remains one of the most iconic performances by an Indian captain in Australia. Faced with the challenge of restricting a strong Australian batting lineup led by Allan Border, Kapil’s inspired spell ensured India could hold the Aussies to 381 runs, leading to a hard-fought draw. His brilliance set the tone for India’s competitive performances in overseas conditions.
Anil Kumble: 8 for 141
- Match Details:
- Series: India Tour of Australia, 2003-04
- Venue: Sydney Cricket Ground
- Date: January 6-10, 2004
Anil Kumble’s extraordinary 8-wicket haul at the SCG showcased his ability to extract everything from the pitch. Despite the match ending in a loss for India, Kumble’s spell stood out against a formidable Australian batting lineup. He gave away just 141 runs in a marathon effort that demonstrated his mastery of spin and ability to adapt to Australian conditions.
Jasprit Bumrah: 5 for 30
- Match Details:
- Series: India Tour of Australia, 2024-25
- Venue: Perth Stadium, Perth
- Date: November 22-26, 2024
In only his second Test as captain, Jasprit Bumrah produced a sensational spell, picking up 5 wickets for just 30 runs. His fiery bowling decimated the Australian batting order, bundling them out for 104 in their first innings. Bumrah’s performance was pivotal in helping India gain a first-innings lead of 46 runs, despite being bowled out for 150. This fifer was his 11th Test five-wicket haul away from home, cementing his reputation as one of India’s finest fast bowlers.