Shardul Thakur, who was not picked for the Australia Test series, has had a sensational Ranji Trophy, but is it enough to warrant an India comeback?
Affectionately dubbed 'Lord' by fans for his knack of conjuring magic in clutch moments, Shardul Thakur has once again thrust himself into the spotlight with a stellar Ranji Trophy season. With 381 runs at an average of 47.62 – including four fifty-plus scores and a century, the latter coming after his team were in deep trouble – and 24 wickets, the second-most for Mumbai this season, including a hat-trick, Thakur's all-round brilliance has reignited discussions about his place in the Indian Test squad.
Yet, after being overlooked for the Australia tour, the question remains: can his domestic heroics translate into a national return?
Thakur’s selection in the Indian Test team has always revolved around balance, allowing India to be more versatile with their plans. Thakur made his debut in 2018, playing just one game over the next three years. But since his comeback in 2021, he became a crucial cog in India's overseas campaigns, particularly in SENA countries. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball allowed India the luxury to drop R Ashwin, one of the best off-spinners in the world but also a useful batter, overseas. The move brought in much criticism but also seemed to work for India, with Thakur stepping up, more often than not.
In his 11-Test career, Thakur scored 331 runs at an average of 19.47 and picked up 31 wickets at 28.38. He hit four half-centuries – two each in Australia and England – as well, which further underscored his value in the side. His bowling highlight was his seven-for at Johannesburg in 2022 in a game where the other frontline seamers from India looked lacklustre.
The game proved to be his last impactful performance as consistency eluded him thereafter. Over the next eight innings, he managed only 82 runs, 51 of which came in one innings against Australia in the World Test Championship final. His bowling returns dipped too, with just five wickets at an average of 66.60.
