Shardul Thakur

Shardul Thakur is a gritty and athletic right-arm fast-medium bowler known for his knack for breakthroughs and knack for crucial lower-order runs. Originating from Palghar, Maharashtra, he progressed through Mumbai’s cricketing system, making his first-class debut in 2013‑14 before breaking into India’s national setup in 2017. Thakur’s ability to swing the ball early and maintain good pace makes him a valuable option in all formats, especially when looking for a change of tempo or a wicket‑taking option mid‑innings.

Thakur first caught the public eye during the 2018 Test series in Australia, where he played a key role in the historic win at Melbourne with both bat and ball. His ability to deliver in pressure situations was further showcased in the 2021–22 series against England, where he scored two Test fifties—including a match‑saving 67* in the Oval Test—and took nine wickets in the series. His knack for delivering late‑order runs has also been highlighted in white-ball cricket, such as his 34‑ball 54 in the 2023 ODI World Cup semi‑final against New Zealand.

In the IPL and domestic competitions, Thakur has established himself as a go‑to utility player—capable of delivering 140‑145 kph spells, bowling in the death overs, and contributing impactful cameos with the bat. His adaptability has led to stints with Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, and Gujarat Titans. Off the field, Thakur is admired for his fierce competitiveness and team‑first attitude, making him an inspirational presence in the dressing room. While not always the headline grabber, his all‑round contributions make him one of India’s most valuable support players across formats.