Shardul Thakur's Dramatic IPL 2025 Comeback
In a surprising turn of events, Shardul Thakur has secured his place in the IPL 2025 with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as a wildcard entry. Thakur, a seasoned all-rounder from India, initially went unsold in the IPL auction despite setting his base price at INR 2 crore. His opportunity with LSG arose following an injury to their left-arm pacer, Mohsin Khan, who suffered a calf strain during a pre-season training session.
This unexpected opening with LSG marks Thakur's first involvement with the team and represents his sixth appearance for an IPL franchise. The 33-year-old is bouncing back from recent foot surgery and has promptly joined the squad in Visakhapatnam, readying himself for their opener against Delhi Capitals on March 24. With LSG's current injury woes, including fitness concerns for other pacers like Mayank Yadav and Avesh Khan, Thakur's addition is seen as crucial.
Impact on County Season and India's England Tour
However, Thakur's return to the IPL has a ripple effect beyond just domestic T20. He was set to play a vital role in the County Championship for Essex, participating in seven matches scheduled in April and May. This stint was not just another overseas assignment but part of a preparatory pathway for India's upcoming England tour in June and July, where Thakur's performance as a potential fourth seamer was anticipated to be pivotal.
Essex expressed their disappointment over Thakur's IPL engagement, as his involvement in county matches was meant to sharpen his skills and contribute significantly to Essex's campaign. Despite understanding the professional choice made by Thakur, the club had to adjust to his sudden unavailability. This development might influence India's strategies for the England series, potentially leaving a critical gap in their bowling lineup.
Yet, Thakur's track record demonstrates his strong capability. With 94 IPL wickets across 95 matches and a career economy rate of 9.23, he has remained a formidable force in the league. On the international stage, his record in Test cricket, especially in English conditions, includes 31 wickets at an average of 28.08, highlighting his effectiveness. His Test performances, with ten wickets in just four Tests in England, underscore his suitability for seam-friendly pitches.
Back home at the IPL, Thakur's signing with LSG has sparked a mix of reactions from cricket fans and analysts. While some see it as a strategic move by LSG, others are keenly observing how Thakur will adapt and perform following a year off the international scene. Nevertheless, his blend of experience and skill promises an exciting dimension to Lucknow's squad dynamics.