Shardul Thakur has recently marked his return to competitive cricket following a prolonged recovery from an ankle injury. The all-rounder sustained the injury during the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, which led to surgery in London on June 12. According to the Times of India, Thakur made his comeback for Mumbai in a Dr (Capt) K Thimmappiah Memorial Tournament match against KSCA Secretary’s XI in Bengaluru. His return, however, was not ideal as he recorded a two-ball duck and bowled eight overs, conceding 29 runs without taking a wicket.
Thakur might be in line to represent Mumbai in the upcoming Irani Cup. The Ranji Trophy champions are set to face the Rest of India side from October 1 at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. Initially, the match was scheduled for the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, but due to the delayed monsoon in the city, the venue was changed.
The all-rounder missed the ongoing Duleep Trophy as he was still recovering when the squad was announced. His last appearance for India came during the tour of South Africa in late 2023. Thakur also played a pivotal role in Mumbai’s 2024 Ranji Trophy triumph, with significant performances in the semi-final and final matches. He scored a hundred in the semi-final against Tamil Nadu and a fifty in the final against Vidarbha, finishing the season with 255 runs and 16 wickets.
Thakur Eyes National Return Through Border-Gavaskar Series
Shardul Thakur has proven to be a crucial player for India, especially in overseas conditions. His lower-middle order batting and ability to serve as a fourth pacer add much-needed balance to the Indian team. Thakur’s versatility has been instrumental in key moments for India.
India’s upcoming overseas challenge, a five-match Test series against Australia, could see Thakur being called upon once again. While Hardik Pandya has made headlines for his red-ball bowling, Thakur has an edge due to his prior experience and success in such conditions. The Border-Gavaskar series might provide Thakur with the perfect opportunity to make a national comeback.
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