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Shardul Thakur Returns To Cricket After Injury Setback; Set To Feature In Irani Trophy

Shardul Thakur returns to competitive cricket [X]Shardul Thakur returns to competitive cricket [X]

India's prominent seam-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur has made a much-awaited comeback to competitive cricket after recovering from an ankle injury. The experienced cricketer, who underwent surgery to treat his troublesome ankle, returned to the field this weekend, representing Mumbai against KSCA Secretary's XI in a Dr (Capt) K Thimmappiah Memorial Tournament at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. 

The seasoned cricketer had a forgettable game, registering a duck and going wicketless in the contest. However, as he has regained fitness, Thakur might be one of the key players for Mumbai in their upcoming Irani Trophy clash against the Rest of India in Lucknow. 

Shardul Thakur's Recent Performances

Renowned for his incredible all-round attributes, Shardul Thakur played his last international match during India's South Africa tour earlier this year. He played the first Test in Centurion but let the visitors down, managing 26 runs and a solitary wicket in the game. 

He was dropped from India's playing XI for the second Test and looked ordinary with bat and ball for Chennai Super Kings in this year's Indian Premier League. In nine IPL 2024 matches, Thakur could score only 21 runs and five wickets, turning out to be one of the under-performers for the five-time champions. 

Shardul Thakur's Return: A Massive Boost For Team India? 

Shardul Thakur's comeback is definitely an encouraging development for Team India ahead of a packed cricketing calendar. After crossing swords against Bangladesh, the Rohit Sharma-led side will take on New Zealand at home before travelling to Australia for a five-match Test series Down Under. 

Considering their hectic schedule, India might require several reserves in order to manage the workload of their first-choice players, especially fast bowlers. In such a scenario, Shardul Thakur could be an asset for India, as he can be effective with bat and ball across formats.