Wisden 2025 Honours: Bumrah & Mandhana Shine in Cricket’s Prestigious Almanack

India has asserted its dominance in world cricket as Jasprit Bumrah and Smriti Mandhana were named Wisden’s Leading Cricketers in the World for 2025. The announcement was made in the latest edition of the Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack, often considered the most prestigious chronicle of the sport. Recognizing players for their excellence across formats, this year’s list also included stellar names in men’s, women’s, and T20 cricket, while spotlighting standout domestic performances in England. The edition also carried strong commentary on cricket’s global governance and heartfelt tributes to cricketing legends.

Key Highlights – Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack 2025

Leading Cricketers of the Year

• Jasprit Bumrah – Leading Men’s Cricketer in the World
• First Test bowler to reach 200 wickets with an average below 20.
• Took 71 Test wickets in 2024 at an average under 15.
• Starred in India’s T20 World Cup win in the Caribbean.
• Took 32 wickets at 13.06 in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia.
• Hailed by editor Lawrence Booth as “the star of the year.”

Smriti Mandhana – Leading Women’s Cricketer in the World

• Scored 1659 runs across formats in 2024 — a record for women.
• Hit four ODI hundreds in a single year.
• Scored 149 in a Test win over South Africa.

Wisden’s Five Cricketers of the Year (Honoured Once in Lifetime)

• Gus Atkinson – England debutant, 52 Test wickets at 22; scored maiden century at No. 8.
• Jamie Smith – Key Surrey player and debut Test cricketer.
• Dan Worrall – Australia-born seamer, 52 wickets for Surrey at 16 average.
• Liam Dawson – Hampshire all-rounder, 54 wickets and 956 runs.
• Sophie Ecclestone – England spinner; 26 wickets at under 10 in unbeaten home summer.

Outstanding Performance of the Year

Mitchell Santner (New Zealand)

• Took 13 wickets vs India in Pune Test.
• Helped New Zealand win first Test series in India since 2012.
• Led to a 3–0 whitewash over India.

Tributes and Farewells

• James Anderson: Honoured for his retirement with 704 Test wickets.
• Derek Underwood: Remembered by Mike Brearley.
• Graham Thorpe: Heartfelt tribute by his widow Amanda Thorpe on his mental health struggles and legacy.