Michael Clarke labels 'freak' Bumrah as 'best ever' all-format bowler

There have not been many bowlers who have mastered all three formats of the game. However, Jasprit Bumrah could certainly be regarded as one who hast. One of his most-recent spectacle came during 2024-25Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he was adjudged the Player of the Series for registering 32 wickets in nine innings at a sensational average of 13.06.   

Former Australian World Cup-winning skipper, Michael Clarke, extolled the Indian fast-bowling spearhead. He also justified his take on what made Bumrah the best all-format bowler he had seen up until now. 

"The thing I've thought about Bumrah after the series finished and I was sitting and thinking about his performances. I think he's the best fast bowler ever across all three formats. I know a lot of great fast bowlers like Curtly Ambrose and Glenn McGrath who didn't get to play T20 cricket, so I'm not talking about those guys, but in regards to anyone who has played all three formats, I think he might be the best ever. He's actually that good in any conditions, that's what makes him great; any conditions, any format, this guy's a freak," shared Clarke on ESPNcricinfo's Around The Wicket.

Also Read: Brad Haddin predicts Jasprit Bumrah to be in same league with McGrath, Akram

He's so much better than the other bowlers they had in the team: Clarke

Laying emphasis on the final Test, Clarke felt that India would have held the upper hand going into the run-chase had Bumrah not sustained a back spasm.  

"I reckon India were probably 20 runs short [in Sydney]. I reckon a 180-run lead, with Bumrah in the team, I think India are home. I think Bumrah is that good. He's so much better than the other bowlers they had in the team," he added. 

Bumrah's bowling performances were praised by some members from the Australian side as well, such was his impact on the series. India would hope for their frontline pacer to get back to optimal fitness ahead of the ninth iteration of the Champions Trophy.