"Bumrah Is Superb, But...": Rishi Sunak Makes His Pick

New Delhi: Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak found himself in a tough spot at the NDTV World Summit 2025 when he was asked to choose between two pace bowling legends—India's Jasprit Bumrah and England's James Anderson. And while he praised both, his heart (and nationality) led him to pick England's "Sir Jimmy Anderson."

But the cricket-loving former Prime Minister had a lot more to say about his passion for the game, including a confession about trying to copy Rahul Dravid's batting technique as a kid!

A Tough Choice, But He Went With His Heart

When asked to pick between Bumrah and Anderson, Sunak didn't hesitate to acknowledge Bumrah's brilliance. "Bumrah is superb," he said. But then came the loyalty to his fellow Englishman. "But Sir Jimmy Anderson will have to be my pick."

His reasons went beyond just patriotism. Sunak explained that he was fortunate enough to recommend Anderson for a knighthood to His Majesty the King. "Objectively, his career over the past 20 years is genuinely inspiring. It's not just his commitment and work ethic; his humility is quite extraordinary for a top-tier sportsman," he said.

Anderson retired from Test cricket in 2024 as the third-highest wicket-taker in history with 704 wickets in 188 matches—the most by any fast bowler ever. That's a record that might stand for generations.

The Dravid Connection

But here's where things got really interesting for Indian cricket fans. Sunak revealed that one of his favorite players growing up was none other than Rahul Dravid—India's legendary "Wall."

"One of my favourite players growing up was Rahul Dravid. I tried copying his brilliant technique," Sunak admitted with a smile. Anyone who has tried to bat like Dravid knows that's easier said than done! The former India captain was known for his textbook technique and unshakeable patience.

Sunak also shared that he supports Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL. "I am obviously cheering for England but I have a soft spot for India, as you can imagine. That is why, I get my fix from RCB. That is my other passion as well as my home football team," he said.

Cricket Runs in His Blood

For Sunak, cricket isn't just a sport—it's a way of life. He represents a constituency in Yorkshire, which he called "probably the most cricket-mad part of the UK." That's saying something in a country where cricket is almost like a religion.

"I have been fortunate with that. There is cricket in every part of my life," he explained. He also gave a shout-out to Joe Root, calling him "currently the best English batsman" who has "scored the most runs" and happens to be a Yorkshire cricketer.

Root has been on a record-breaking spree recently and is now second all-time in Test runs, behind only the great Sachin Tendulkar. Not bad company to be in!

Bumrah vs. Anderson: The Numbers

While Sunak picked Anderson, it's worth looking at what makes both bowlers special:

James Anderson:

• 704 Test wickets in 188 matches

• Average: 26.46

• 32 five-wicket hauls

• Retired as the most successful fast bowler in Test history

Jasprit Bumrah:

• 226 Test wickets in 50 matches

• Average: 19.83 (better than Anderson's!)

• 15 five-wicket hauls

• Still actively playing and widely considered the best all-format bowler in the world

The stats show that while Anderson has the longevity and overall numbers, Bumrah's average is actually superior. Many experts believe Bumrah could eventually surpass Anderson's records if he stays fit.

A Cricket Lover Through and Through

What came across clearly from Sunak's appearance at the NDTV World Summit was his genuine love for cricket. Whether he's talking about Anderson's knighthood, Dravid's technique, or Yorkshire cricket, his passion for the game shines through.

And while Indian fans might be a bit disappointed that he didn't pick Bumrah, they can take comfort in knowing that the former UK PM is a Dravid fan and RCB supporter. That's got to count for something!