Shardul Thakur eyes 2023 World Cup after 2022 T20 WC snub

Shardul Thakur surrounded by teammates in first ODI against SA

Shardul Thakur has expressed his disappointment over being left out of India’s squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The all-rounder is currently in India as part of a second-choice team, led by Shikhar Dhawan, for the home series against South Africa.

While the cricketer’s all-round skills often meet the team’s essential requirements, irrespective of the format, he is yet to cement his name in the starting XI.

The 30-year-old has featured in just eight Tests and 50 white-ball games for the country, despite making his international debut back in 2017.

Shardul targets 2023 ODI World Cup for redemption

While Rohit Sharma’s draw-cards are already in Australia for preparations ahead of the T20 World Cup, Thakur has been laying out a roadmap for his future.

A day before India’s second ODI against the Proteas, the Mumbai-based talent said that he is looking to make the most of the opportunities at hand. He added that he is aiming to make some match-winning contributions for his country, in a bid to cement his place for the ODI World Cup next year, set to be hosted in India itself.

When asked to express his take on being left out of T20 World Cup 2022, the all-rounder said:

“There is definitely disappointment. It’s every player’s dream to play and win a World Cup. This time, I am not selected. That’s fine. There is a lot cricket…an ODI World Cup ahead. So, my focus is to do well in the matches ahead. I like to make winning contributions. I would like to win more and more matches for the team.”

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