Jasprit Bumrah’s exceptional performance in the IPL 2025 Eliminator against Gujarat Titans (GT) has left experts in awe. Varun Aaron described the Mumbai Indians (MI) seamer as “like an antidote, a vaccine that can cure any illness” a bowling side might face. Bumrah, with figures of 1 for 27, was instrumental in MI’s win, showcasing his ability to deliver in clutch moments.
The Impact of Bumrah’s Mastery
Bumrah, who conceded only 6.75 per over in a high-scoring game, displayed remarkable control and skill. He is known for his ability to break partnerships and stop the run flow when needed most. Aaron, speaking on ESPNcricinfo’s Time Out, praised Bumrah’s self-confidence, recalling how the bowler took charge even when the team’s bowling plans were under pressure.
“If you want wickets, he gets you wickets. If you need to stop runs, he does that too. What a bowler,” Aaron said. “He’s so calm, even when others are panicking. And when they do, he just says, ‘I’ll do the job.’”
The Game-Changing Yorker to Washington Sundar
The turning point came in the 14th over of GT’s chase, with Bumrah delivering a pinpoint yorker that flattened Washington Sundar’s leg stump. Washington had been on a rampage, smashing 48 from 23 balls, but the crucial wicket shattered GT’s chances of chasing down the daunting target of 229. Bumrah’s delivery, which left Washington stunned on the floor, changed the course of the game.
“This yorker was impossible to negotiate,” Aaron added. “It’s hard for any bowler, especially when it’s targeted at leg stump like that. Washington was expecting something wide, but this delivery was just too good.”
Bumrah’s Statistical Dominance
Bumrah’s exceptional spell put him at the top of the charts for both the best economy and best average in IPL 2025 (minimum five overs). Despite playing four fewer matches than most of his MI teammates, he has also placed No. 6 in the wicket-taker standings.
Tom Moody and Hardik Pandya’s Praise
Hardik Pandya, speaking after the match, referred to Bumrah as a “luxury” for MI. Meanwhile, Tom Moody described the bowler as “pure class.”
“The challenge every opposition faces against Bumrah is that he makes every delivery count,” Moody said. “When Bumrah bowls, you’re not just playing against 24 balls; you’re playing against 20 overs versus 16. His skill level is far ahead of others in the tournament.”
Moody also highlighted Bumrah’s unparalleled wicket-taking ability. “That yorker to Washington Sundar was perfect – a leg-stump yorker that went through his legs at pace, to a batter who was in and going at a 200 strike rate. You just can’t bowl a better ball.”
