BCCI Naman Awards: Bumrah to receive prestigious Polly Umrigar Award
What's the story
Renowned Indian cricket star Jasprit Bumrah will receive the prestigious Polly Umrigar Award for 'Best Men's International Cricketer' of the 2023-24 season. The award will be presented at the annual Naman Awards ceremony, hosted by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), on February 1 in Mumbai. Meanwhile, this recognition follows Bumrah's recent honors as ICC Men's Test Cricketer of the Year and ICC Cricketer of the Year.
Stellar season
Bumrah's exceptional performance in 2023-24 season
Bumrah's 2023-24 season was nothing short of phenomenal, which earned him the top spot in the ICC Test Rankings. Notably, he took an astonishing 71 wickets in just 13 matches last year, leaving his nearest competitor far behind. Additionally, his incredible skills were on display during the high-profile Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 as well, where he was named Player of the Tournament for picking up 32 scalps.
World cup heroics
Bumrah's contribution to India's T20 World Cup victory
Bumrah was instrumental in India's 2024 ICC T20 World Cup victory. He took an impressive 15 wickets at an average of 8.26 and an economy rate of 4.17, earning another Player of the Tournament award. Meanwhile, his performance against Pakistan stood out, with his spell of 3-14 helping India defend a low score in New York City.
Dominant display
Bumrah's impact on Border-Gavaskar Trophy
In the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Bumrah was relentless against the Australian batters with his brilliant bowling. He took five-wicket hauls in Perth, Brisbane, and Melbourne, single-handedly keeping India in the hunt to level the series. Despite an injury leading to an Australian win in the final Test and series, Bumrah's performance throughout showcased his skill and tenacity.
Additional honorees
Other recipients of BCCI Naman Awards
Along with Bumrah, other cricketing legends will also be honored at the Naman Awards. Sachin Tendulkar will receive the C K Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award, while Smriti Mandhana will be honored as the 'Best Women's International Cricketer' for the fourth time. The ceremony will also pay tribute to Ravichandran Ashwin's illustrious career, which came to an end in December last year during the third Test of the BGT.