Shardul Thakur has been an in-form cricketer for India over the last year. He does consider himself as a “genuine all-rounder” with even Virat Kohli, the then India Test captain, labelling him as an “all-rounder” ahead of the South Africa Test series.
Thakur has time and again showcased his batting ability with stylish fifties – he has three Test fifties in match-winning causes – but his moment to shine came in Johannesburg Test when he returned with best bowling figures of 7/61.
Over the last 13 months, Thakur has been given opportunities in all three formats for India and he has grabbed those with both hands.
Ahead of the upcoming West Indies series, Shardul Thakur revealed that he starts preparing for any game one day before the match. He explained that he looks to make his net sessions “purposeful” for whatever he does well in the nets, he wants it to execute the same on the field.
Speaking with The Indian Express, Thakur said: “My planning and strategy start a day before the game. If I’m bowling in the nets, I will try things which I want to try in the game. If I’m executing well, I will bowl them in the game. I always believe that whatever practice I do, it should be purposeful. Having quality practice is the key.”
‘Lord’ Shardul Thakur asserted that his role in the team has been that of an all-rounder. Known for swing bowling, Thakur has developed into a handy batsman which the Indian team management has trusted in the lower-order.
The Palghar-born cricket pointed out how batting depths have aided other teams such as Australia and England, with the tailenders scoring some crucial runs.
“Yes, I do consider myself a genuine all-rounder. Going ahead whenever I get an opportunity, I want to deliver. Whenever a batsman contributes at number seven, it helps to build partnerships and gets the team to a good score. Look at teams like Australia and England. They have players who can contribute lower down the order. It makes a massive difference,” Thakur added.
Shardul Thakur was also asked about his reaction to Virat Kohli stepping down as Test skipper in a sudden manner after the loss to South Africa. He said that the players hadn’t expected Kohli to relinquish his Test captain despite the team doing well overseas.
“It was an emotional moment for everyone. No one expected that he would resign from Test captaincy. We did well under his captaincy, especially overseas. Those series we lost overseas were close ones. The team was doing well under him and no one expected this. However, now that he has made his decision, everyone should respect it,” the 30-year-old said.
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