In an unforgettable intersection of sports and music, Jasprit Bumrah, India’s premier fast bowler, stole the limelight at Coldplay’s record-breaking concert at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on January 26. Amidst the electric atmosphere of the British band’s final performance in India as part of their Music of the Spheres World Tour, the crowd erupted when Bumrah made a surprise appearance, earning a dedication from none other than lead vocalist Chris Martin.
THE GOAT IN COLDPLAY EVENT…!!!! pic.twitter.com/bMucAVjOfY
—Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) January 26, 2025 A Star Among Stars
The concert, attended by an unprecedented 134,000 fans, marked the most-attended musical event in Asia this century. While Coldplay’s dazzling visuals and hit-packed setlist had the stadium buzzing, the highlight of the evening came during the third set. As the camera panned across the massive crowd, it landed on Jasprit Bumrah, instantly igniting deafening cheers and chants of “Bumrah! Bumrah!”
Chris Martin, ever the showman, seized the moment. “Jasprit Bumrah, my beautiful brother,” he sang impromptu, weaving heartfelt lyrics about Bumrah’s cricketing prowess. A clip of Bumrah’s fiery spell against England last year played in the background, amplifying the crowd’s energy. The performance was a testament to the global recognition of Bumrah’s talent, as Martin dubbed him “the best bowler in the whole of cricket.”
Building Anticipation: A Perfect Publicity Stunt?
The dedication was the culmination of a week-long build-up. At earlier concerts in Mumbai, Martin had humorously referenced Bumrah, even pretending to read a letter from “Bumrah’s lawyers” about unauthorized mentions of his name. What initially appeared to be light-hearted banter turned out to be a cleverly orchestrated moment leading to Bumrah’s show-stopping appearance in Ahmedabad, his hometown.
This seamless fusion of humor and heartfelt admiration underlined Coldplay’s ability to connect with their audience, transcending boundaries of music and sport. Fans were left buzzing about the unique moment, which trended across social media within minutes.
A Welcome Break for India’s Cricketing Icon
For Bumrah, the concert offered a rare moment of joy and relaxation amid a challenging phase in his cricketing journey. The star pacer, currently sidelined due to a back injury, has been under intense scrutiny with the 2025 Champions Trophy looming. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar recently confirmed Bumrah would refrain from bowling for five weeks, leaving fans anxiously awaiting updates on his recovery.
The break, however, hasn’t dimmed Bumrah’s aura. His scintillating performances in 2024 remain fresh in fans’ minds, particularly his historic 32-wicket haul in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and his Player of the Tournament accolade in India’s triumphant T20 World Cup campaign.
Coldplay’s Ahmedabad Spectacle: A Night to Remember
The Narendra Modi Stadium, the world’s largest cricket venue, provided the perfect backdrop for Coldplay’s monumental performance. With dazzling lights, larger-than-life visuals, and a setlist spanning their iconic hits, the concert was nothing short of magical. The addition of a cricketing superstar like Bumrah further elevated the evening, blending the spirit of sport and music into a singular cultural moment.
Coldplay’s concerts in India have always been star-studded affairs, with celebrities and athletes often spotted in attendance. However, the Ahmedabad show will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most iconic, thanks to the heartfelt tribute to Bumrah.