Ian Bishop, a renowned figure in cricket known for his formidable fast bowling during his playing days, has recently called for an honorary PhD degree to be awarded to Jasprit Bumrah for his mastery in fast bowling. This suggestion came after Bumrah delivered an exceptional performance against Punjab Kings in the ongoing season of the Indian Premier League (IPL).
The match, held at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh, showcased Bumrah’s skill as he played a pivotal role in securing a win for Mumbai Indians. Impressed by his display, Bishop expressed his admiration and proposal for Bumrah’s honorary degree through a post on his X account.
“If I could anoint Jasprit Bumrah with a fast bowling PhD, I would,” Bishop wrote. He praised Bumrah as “terrific communicator, knowledgeable and articulate,” suggesting that Bumrah could also engage in delivering lectures to young and aspiring seam bowlers across the country, not just after retirement but immediately.
Bumrah’s performance in the IPL has been nothing short of spectacular. Amid a season characterized by batsmen dominating bowlers, Bumrah has consistently taken wickets at crucial times, distinguishing himself significantly from his peers. He presently wears the Purple Cap, having taken 13 wickets in just seven games, boasting an economy rate of a mere 5.96 and an average of 12.84 runs per wicket.
These statistics are not just numbers but a testament to his skill and tactical intelligence on the field. Bumrah, at 30 years old, has utilized his experience and prowess to challenge some of the best batsmen in the international arena. His approach, often involving sharp yorkers and a mix of deceptive slower deliveries, has troubled batsmen this IPL season.
In one of the season’s highlight performances, Bumrah achieved a remarkable feat by taking five wickets in a single match, joining Yash Thakur of Lucknow Super Giants as only the second bowler to achieve this in the current IPL season. His accolades include ten Player of the Match awards, tying with teammate Umesh Yadav for the most by any pacer in the history of the IPL.
His crucial role has not only been about taking wickets but also about anchoring the Mumbai Indians’ bowling attack, especially in times when the team needed to resurrect their campaign under Captain Hardik Pandya. Bishop’s acknowledgment and the sensational form of Bumrah have sparked conversations about his legacy as one of the IPL’s all-time great bowlers.
Bumrah’s potential and skill have indeed put him in a category that might deserve academic recognition, as suggested by Ian Bishop. Awarding him with a PhD in fast bowling would be an unconventional but fitting tribute to his mastery and deep understanding of the art, which he could impart to the next generation of cricketers.
While honorary doctorates are generally awarded by academic institutions and are symbolic, the idea stresses recognizing not just Bumrah’s skills but also his intellectual contribution to cricket. Such a gesture might inspire younger players about the importance of understanding the mechanics, physics, and strategies of bowling beyond just playing.
As the IPL progresses, all eyes will be on Bumrah to continue his exceptional form, leading Mumbai Indians to what could be another memorable season. His journey is a blend of skill, strategy, and now, potentially, academic honor, setting a new precedence in how cricketing prowess is recognized and celebrated globally.