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Shardul Thakur Set To Return In India's Playing XI For 4th Test Vs England - Reports

Soumyajit Dutta

Shardul Thakur [Source: @Akshatgoel1408/X.com]Shardul Thakur [Source: @Akshatgoel1408/X.com]

India is poised to recall batter Sai Sudarshan and reinstate all-rounder Shardul Thakur for the must-win fourth Test against England at Old Trafford starting Wednesday. Karun Nair is likely to be dropped after batting at No. 3 in the last two Tests, having averaged 21.83 this series. Thakur is set to replace the injured Nitish Reddy, while uncapped pacer Anshul Kamboj might step in for Akash Deep.

The changes mean India will again field six bowling options of Shardul Thakur, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar as all-rounders, supported by specialist pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Kamboj.

Shardul Thakur Highly Likely To Be Named In XI

Thakur’s inclusion significantly bolsters India’s lower-order batting and seam-bowling depth. His recall, which has been reported by journalist Sandeep Dwivedi from The Indian Express, comes after being omitted following the first Test, with captain Shubman Gill previously hinting at continuity. “We think Karun is batting well... Sometimes it’s about getting that click. Once you make your 50, you get back in your zone.”

However, Thakur’s superior bowling record in English conditions of taking 10 wickets at a strike rate of 49.8 and his ability to contribute vital runs with the bat too, likely influenced the rethink for this must-win game.

Kamboj's Potential Debut

Haryana seamer Anshul Kamboj is set for a Test debut after Akash Deep’s injury. The 24-year-old, known for his bounce and seam movement, was drafted as cover after impressing in India A tours. Notably, Shubman Gill also confirmed in a recent press conference that he's "very close" to playing in the series.

Kamboj's potential inclusion comes on the back of impressive form. He has consistently drawn praise for his performances in domestic cricket and recently showcased his talent for India A, where he notably claimed 5 wickets in just two matches against England Lions.

The Sudarshan vs. Nair Dilemma

While Nair has been backed for the first three Tests, his numbers failed to impress. Nair’s inconsistent returns (scores of 0, 20, 31, 26, 40, 14) might cost him his place, as Sudharsan might come into the fray.

Notably, Sai Sudarshan’s visualisation drills on the pitch and warm-up sessions on the eve of the Test signalled his return despite Gill’s earlier backing of Nair. The Tamil Nadu left-hander was initially dropped after Leeds for team balance, but now is set to reclaim the pivotal No. 3 slot.