Former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis has hailed India pace ace Jasprit Bumrah as the toughest bowler in world cricket, jokingly adding that he hopes the star never plays in South Africa’s SA20 League. Bumrah is touted as the best bowler in the world across formats, given his remarkable performances over the last few years.
Speaking at the SA20 India Day event in Mumbai, Joburg Super Kings captain du Plessis said, “Bumrah is the toughest bowler in the world to face. I hope we don’t see him in the SA20.” The 39-year-old, who has faced Bumrah in both international and franchise cricket, highlighted the Indian pacer’s unique action and accuracy as qualities that make him a nightmare for any batsman.
Since returning from injury in April this year, Bumrah has continued his remarkable form across formats. He recently played a key role in India’s 2–1 T20I series win over Australia, picking three wickets at an economy of 6.58.
Apart from his impressive numbers, Bumrah’s impact has been immense. In 79 T20Is, the 31-year-old has taken 99 wickets in 77 innings at an average of 18.11 and an economy rate of 6.36, making him India’s second highest wicket-taker in the format, behind Arshdeep Singh.
His knack for early breakthroughs and exceptional control at the death cemented his position as not only India’s best match-winner, but also the world’s gold standard of fast bowling excellence. He continued his reign at the top of the ICC Test bowling rankings throughout the year with 882 rating points.
Bumrah already has the best bowling average in Tests with at least 200 goals. He scalped 226 wickets from 50 matches at a staggering average of 19.83 and an economy of 2.78. The quick will be looking to continue his form in the two-match series against South Africa starting on November 14.
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Issued by:
Rishabh Beniwal
Published on:
November 12, 2025
