Shardul Thakur is impressing Indian selectors with exceptional performances in the Ranji Trophy 2024. He played a crucial role in Mumbai’s matches against Jammu & Kashmir and Meghalaya. Scored a match-saving century and a half-century, showcasing his batting prowess. Took a sensational hat trick against Meghalaya, proving his bowling dominance. Despite going unsold in the IPL 2025 auction, his domestic form keeps him in contention for India selection.
Key Highlights:
Thakur’s Fighting Spirit Rescues Mumbai Against Jammu & Kashmir:
Shardul Thakur has been a standout performer in the Ranji Trophy 2024, displaying his all-round brilliance for Mumbai. Despite struggling in the IPL and international cricket, Thakur remains determined to reclaim his spot in the Indian team. His performances have been particularly crucial in Mumbai’s hard-fought battles.
Against Jammu & Kashmir, Thakur emerged as Mumbai’s savior when top players like Ajinkya Rahane, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Rohit Sharma failed to contribute significantly. Mumbai’s batting lineup collapsed, but Thakur held his ground.
In the first innings, when no other Mumbai batter crossed 30 runs, Thakur’s vital 51 helped Mumbai recover from 47/7 to post a respectable 120.
The second innings saw a similar collapse, with Mumbai struggling at 101/7. Thakur, who remained unsold in the IPL 2025 auction, responded with a defiant century. His brilliant 119-run knock was a testament to his batting ability, though it wasn’t enough to secure a victory for Mumbai.
Hat-Trick Hero: Thakur Destroys Meghalaya in Style
Thakur’s heroics continued in Mumbai’s next Ranji Trophy fixture against Meghalaya, where he played a starring role with both bat and ball.
After Mumbai skipper Ajinkya Rahane opted to bowl first, Thakur immediately justified the decision. He tore through Meghalaya’s batting lineup, picking up a stunning hat-trick in his second over.
His spell began with the dismissal of opener Nishanta Chakraborty for a duck. He then struck thrice in consecutive deliveries, removing B Anirudh, Sumit Kumar, and Jaskirat Singh to complete his hat-trick. Thanks to his fiery bowling, Mumbai dismissed Meghalaya for just 86 runs.
Blazing Knock: Thakur’s 42-Ball 84 Puts Mumbai in Command
Thakur wasn’t done yet. On day two, he made a significant impact with the bat, further establishing Mumbai’s dominance.
Joining the crease at 458/6, he unleashed a ruthless counterattack on Meghalaya’s bowlers. His explosive innings saw him score 84 runs off just 42 balls, including nine boundaries and five towering sixes.
His aggressive knock propelled Mumbai’s total to 614 before he was eventually dismissed. By then, however, the damage was done, and Mumbai was in complete control of the match.
Thakur’s Case for an India Comeback Grows Stronger:
Despite his recent setbacks in the IPL and international cricket, Shardul Thakur’s Ranji Trophy performances are a reminder of his immense talent. His ability to contribute in both departments makes him a valuable asset for Mumbai and a potential game-changer for India.
With India constantly on the lookout for quality all-rounders, Thakur’s form could earn him another opportunity at the highest level. If he continues to dominate domestic cricket, a national team recall might not be far away.
Shardul Thakur’s stellar showing in the Ranji Trophy 2024 has reignited hopes for his India comeback. His heroic knocks with the bat and sensational bowling performances are turning heads, proving his worth as a dependable all-rounder. If he maintains this form, it won’t be long before he dons the Indian jersey again.
Do you think Shardul Thakur deserves another shot in Team India? Share your thoughts in the comments!
The Hindustan Herald Is Your Source For The Latest In Business, Entertainment, Lifestyle, Breaking News, And Other News. Please Follow Us On Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, And LinkedIn To Receive Instantaneous Updates. Also Don’t Forget To Subscribe Our Telegram Channel @hindustanherald
