Shardul Thakur, the dependable pace-bowling all-rounder, is once again knocking on the doors of the Indian Test team after a notable hiatus. Having last featured in a Test match against South Africa in Centurion in 2023, Thakur has quietly built a strong case for his return through consistent performances in both domestic cricket and the ongoing IPL season.
The 33-year-old was a standout for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy, where he picked up 35 wickets and contributed 505 valuable runs, underlining his utility with both bat and ball. His white-ball form has also remained sharp — Thakur has claimed 12 wickets in nine matches for Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025, making him one of their top wicket-takers.
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These performances have reportedly caught the attention of the selectors. According to Cricbuzz, Thakur is set for a comeback to the Indian Test squad, ending his 18-month absence. With a challenging tour of England on the horizon, conditions are expected to suit his style of bowling, particularly with his knack for generating movement and bounce off the pitch.
LORD THAKUR IN ENGLAND TOUR 🚨
🏏 Shardul Thakur is set to be part of Team India’s Squad for the Test series against England. (Cricbuzz). pic.twitter.com/YRSMH6Be3A
— MR. 𝕏 (@Krish_RC_) May 12, 2025
Thakur’s past record in England also supports his return. During the 2021 series, he impressed with both bat and ball, scoring 122 runs, including two fifties, and taking eight wickets in three Tests. That series famously ended in a 2-2 stalemate.
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While Thakur’s resurgence is encouraging, his Mumbai teammate Shreyas Iyer remains on the fringe. Despite solid domestic performances and a decent IPL run with Punjab Kings, Iyer’s pathway remains blocked due to stiff competition. However, his selection could hinge on Virat Kohli’s potential retirement from Test cricket, which, if confirmed, might just open a spot in the middle order for the stylish right-hander.
