After his promising debut and commendable performance in his first year in international cricket, the sky is the limit for Jasprit Bumrah. He has already cemented his place in the Indian team in the shorter formats of the game. His next target is to get into the Indian Test team. Recognising his rise, Cricket Australia named him in their ODI Team of the Year.

He opened up in an interview “Honestly, I am not too much bothered about recognition nor I am worried what is written about me. There is no doubt that I do feel honoured. It is always an honour to be named alongside world’s best. But I don’t get carried away with accolades.” This is a clear indication that Bumrah has his head firmly on his shoulders and remains focussed on the job at hand.

“I am happy that I did fairly well. But it is just the start for me. I have just taken the first step. I want to stay fit and play long. I feel, I have a long way to go before I can look back and analyze my performance” added Bumrah.

Bumrah is well on his way to breaking into the Test team with some impressive performances in the Ranji Trophy in the current season. So far, in the current season he has represented Gujarat in 7 matches, including the current semi-final against Jharkhand. He is the 2nd highest wicket-taker for Gujarat taking 17 wickets at a bowling average of 26.64, at an economy rate of 2.36 and bowling strike rate of 67.7, with two 5 wicket hauls. These are impressive stats bowling on pitches which usually do not provide any assistance for the fast bowlers.

“As I said before, I am not bothered by where I get to play. Of course, as a cricketer, I want to play Test cricket. It is a dream of every cricketer to play the longest format of the game. But when I get a chance to play is something that is not in my hand. As a player, I am prepared for any challenge that comes my way. Test cricket is the pinnacle of the game. Yes, I am focussed in earning my Test cap. And I am sure, consistent performance in the Ranji Trophy will help me realize my dream. But honestly, I am not worried too much about that.”

If he continues to progress at the rate he has, Bumrah will achieve his goal sooner rather than later.

Quotes taken from Mumbai Mirror.