Neeraj Chopra Sees Javelin Potential in Indian Cricket Star Jasprit Bumrah

Neeraj Chopra Thinks This Cricketer Could Excel at Javelin

Neeraj Chopra, India's Olympic champion in javelin, has identified Jasprit Bumrah, the Indian cricket team's prominent fast bowler, as a potential javelin star. Chopra believes Bumrah possesses the physical attributes and technical skills necessary to dominate the sport.

India's Neeraj Chopra (PTI Photo/Ravi Choudhary)

During a segment on Star Sports, hosted by Navjot Singh Sidhu, Chopra emphasized Bumrah's fitness and strength as crucial assets. He stated that if Bumrah weren't already a successful cricketer, his physical capabilities would make him an excellent javelin thrower.

"I think it would be a fast bowler for sure. So, I think a fully fit Jasprit Bumrah will be good at it," Chopra stated.

Bumrah's recent cricketing performance underscores his exceptional physical condition. In the first Test match against England at Headingley, he achieved his 14th five-wicket haul in the first innings.

Despite Bumrah's efforts, England secured a victory by chasing down a target of 371 runs, with Ben Duckett scoring 149. This win gave England a 1-0 advantage in the five-match Test series.

Bumrah's statistics for 2024 highlight his dominance in the cricketing world. He has claimed 78 wickets in just 15 Test matches, leading all fast bowlers globally during this period.

His workload has also been substantial, bowling 410.4 overs, which is the highest among all pace bowlers worldwide. This surpasses Australia's Mitchell Starc (362.3 overs) and England's Gus Atkinson (328 overs, 54 wickets).

Among Indian bowlers, only Ravindra Jadeja has exceeded 400 overs, bowling 400.1 overs. Mohammed Siraj, who has played the same number of matches as Bumrah, has bowled 355.3 overs.

Due to workload management considerations, Bumrah is expected to be rested for the upcoming Test at Edgbaston. Siraj is anticipated to lead the pace attack, despite his performance in the Headingley Test.

The second Test of the series is scheduled to commence on July 2 in Birmingham, where India will aim to level the series against England.

This discussion about Bumrah's potential in javelin highlights the overlapping athletic requirements of cricket and track and field, particularly the similarities between fast bowling and javelin throwing.

The comments were made as part of the promotion for the Neeraj Chopra Classic javelin throw event, scheduled for July 5, to be broadcast on Star Sports.