Former India opener Aakash Chopra believes that Shardul Thakur has cemented his place as a potential fourth seamer in India’s World Cup squad after an impressive performance during the tour of the Caribbean. The all-rounder’s stellar showing in the three-match ODI series has put him in contention for a spot in the 50-over World Cup scheduled for October-November. Thakur emerged as the highest wicket-taker in the series, claiming eight wickets.

Known for his knack for picking up crucial wickets, Thakur’s ability to break partnerships in the middle overs could prove vital for India in the upcoming 50-over World Cup, which they will host exclusively for the first time. Chopra expressed his opinion that Thakur has surpassed Umran Malik to claim the coveted spot as the fourth fast bowler.

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“You need to praise Lord Thakur a lot. Lord Thakur has picked up the most wickets for India in ODIs since the 2019 World Cup. The good thing is that there is a place vacant for the World Cup. The question was who can be the fourth fast bowler after (Jasprit) Bumrah, (Mohammad) Shami, and (Mohammed) Siraj,” said Aakash Chopra in a video on his YouTube channel.

“It seems like Lord Thakur has become the answer to that question currently. Umran Malik has fallen behind in that list suddenly, although he might do well in the T20s and we start talking about him, but for now, it seems like Lord Thakur’s World Cup looks almost confirmed.”

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In the decisive third ODI against the West Indies at the Brian Lara Stadium, India posted an imposing total of 351 on the board. Mukesh Kumar provided an early breakthrough by dismissing the top three West Indies batters, while Shardul Thakur took four wickets, conceding 37 runs in 6.3 overs. Kuldeep Yadav and Jaydev Unadkat also chipped in with valuable wickets as India bundled out the hosts for 151, securing a comprehensive 200-run victory and clinching the series 2-1.