Joe Root vs Jasprit Bumrah: Fate of Indian team could hinge on this clash of titans

ANI June 19, 2025 312 views

The Leeds Test hinges on the thrilling duel between Joe Root and Jasprit Bumrah. Bumrah has dismissed Root nine times, but the English batter averages 31 against him. Both players chase historic milestones—Bumrah targets 150 SENA wickets, while Root eyes Sachin's run record. This clash could define the match's outcome.

"Bumrah was India's ultimate crisis man and one-man army during the tour to Australia" – Article
London, June 19: As India takes on England in the first Test at Leeds, the battle between England's premier batter Joe Root and India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah presents a mouth-watering contest that needs some discussion, as both players are at the peak of their powers.

Key Points

1

Bumrah has dismissed Root nine times in 24 innings

2

Root averages 31.77 against Bumrah in Tests

3

Bumrah eyes 150 Test wickets in SENA nations

4

Root chases Sachin's all-time Test run record

From Friday onwards, the new-look Team India under captain Shubman Gill will have their task cut out during every Test match, to get Root out as quickly as possible. While there could be Arshdeep Singh's left-arm pace angle, Shardul Thakur's magic arm breaking partnerships, the intensity of Mohammed Siraj, or masterful spin by Ravindra Jadeja or Kuldeep Yadav, there is no one more well-equipped to outclass Root than Bumrah.

Bumrah was India's ultimate crisis man and one-man army during the tour to Australia, taking 32 wickets and often breaking headache-inducing partnerships. He would be aiming to repeat his magic once again in English conditions, having pocketed Root's wicket a total of nine times in 24 innings.

The English superstar has managed 286 runs at an average of 31.77 and a strike rate of 51.16 against Bumrah, utilising 36 fours against the pacer in 559 deliveries. He has played 411 dot balls against Bumrah.

Both men are on a different mission, with Bumrah chasing South Africa, England, New Zealand and Australia (SENA) immortality, just five away from becoming the first Indian to 150 Test wickets in SENA and a five-wicket haul away from 10 fifers in such conditions, becoming the first Indian to do so. On the other hand, Root, the fifth-highest run-getter at 13,006 runs in Tests, is chasing Indian icon Sachin Tendulkar's all-time tally of 15,921 runs in Test cricket.

Who will reign supreme in this battle of megastars? We will find out at Leeds.

Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Bumrah vs Root is always a treat to watch! 🇮🇳 Bumrah's yorkers are deadly but Root plays spin so well. Hope our bowlers have planned something special for him. Remember how Bumrah cleaned him up in 2021? Need more of that magic! #INDvsENG
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Priya M.
While Bumrah is our main weapon, we shouldn't underestimate Root's ability to play long innings. Our fielding needs to be sharp - no dropped catches please! Also, why no mention of Ashwin? His record against left-handers could be crucial.
A
Arjun S.
Root chasing Sachin's record? Not on Bumrah's watch! 😤 Our pace attack is the best we've had in years. But let's not forget, cricket is a team game - everyone needs to contribute. Hope Gill's captaincy debut goes well!
S
Sneha R.
Excited for this contest! But worried about our batting lineup too. England's bowlers will test our technique in swinging conditions. Hope our batters show the same grit as Bumrah & co. with the ball. #BalanceIsKey
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Vikram J.
Bumrah's stats against Root are impressive, but Test cricket is about patience. We need to bowl consistent lines and not get frustrated if Root survives the initial spells. Field placements will be crucial - no easy singles!
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Neha P.
As much as I love Bumrah, let's be honest - Root is a class act. We need multiple plans for him. Maybe some short stuff early on? And please, no loose deliveries on his pads! 🤞 Hoping for a great match with fair conditions for both teams.

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Tags:
Joe Root Jasprit Bumrah India vs England Leeds Test Test cricket SENA wickets