It is generally impossible for players to make a comeback into the Indian Test side — once they cross the 30-year age-barrier. Just look at the likes of Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara, who despite being uber successful, haven’t played for the Indian team for long. Then there is also the example of Mayank Agarwal and Karun Nair, who despite not doing much wrong, were sidelined.
Shardul Thakur a Must for India-England Tests
But then “Lord” Shardul Thakur is a little different. Apart from being a bowler, who has a knack of picking up wickets, he is an under-rated batter down the order, who doesn’t qualify as an all-rounder but does the job better than them. Remember the 2020-21 Brisbane Test vs Australia.. India were 186/6 in the first innings, against hosts’ 294, and Shardul scored an invaluable 67 from 115 deliveries. Not just that, he also strung a 126-run partnership with Washington Sundar.
He played a crucial role in the win, as he returned with 7 wickets in the match as well. Now, the same Shardul Thakur has reminded Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel, that he isn’t done yet. After playing his last Test in Dec 2023, the “all-rounder” is again knocking on Team India doors, with his superlative show in the Ranji Trophy.
Ajit Agarkar Shouldn’t Ignore Ranji Trophy Performances
This year, Lord played nine matches for Mumbai, and picked up 35 wickets at an average of 22, and a strike rate of 40. That had two four-wicket hauls and a fifer too. Come batting, in 12 innings, he scored 505 crucial runs, batting at no. 8 and 9, at an average of 42, including a 100 and four fifties.
That is the value that the 33-year-old adds to the team. And with India vs England series in sight, he should be a must on the tour. Just another reason for his inclusion for England tour should be, he has been exceptional there too. In the four Tests he has played there — he has picked up 10 wickets, and even scored 173 runs, including three fifties. If his Ranji Trophy performance and his track record aren’t good enough to get him into the team, then what is?
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