During the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Indian all-rounder Shardul Thakur went unsold, leaving many cricket enthusiasts and experts stunned. The 33-year-old, who had been a vital member of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the 2024 edition, entered the auction with a base price of INR 2 crore but failed to attract any bids. However, Thakur’s resolve remained unshaken, and he soon bounced back in emphatic style with an exceptional bowling performance in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2024.

Shardul Thakur shines with a stellar bowling performance for Mumbai

In the Group E match of SMAT 2024 between Mumbai and Services, Thakur reminded everyone of his immense skill and potential. Taking the ball in a high-pressure situation, Thakur delivered a spellbinding performance, finishing with remarkable figures of 4 wickets for just 25 runs in his four overs. His economy rate of 6.20 was impressive, especially given the competitive nature of T20 cricket. Thakur’s magical spell dismantled the Services batting lineup, as he dismissed the top four batters, putting his team on a firm path to victory. His contributions played a key role in Mumbai’s comfortable 39-run win, which has elevated their position in the Group E points table.

Here’s the video:

𝑾𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝑳𝒐𝒓𝒅 𝑺𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒅𝒖𝒍 𝒃𝒐𝒘𝒍𝒔,? 𝒘𝒊𝒄𝒌𝒆𝒕𝒔 𝒇??𝒂𝒍𝒍 🫶

Keep watching #IDFCFirstBankSyedMushtaqAliTrophy on #JioCinema and #Sports18Khel! 👈#ShardulThakur #JioCinemaSports #SMAT pic.twitter.com/1oHSvyGrBR

— JioCinema (@JioCinema) December 3, 2024

Additionally, Mumbai has had a solid start to their SMAT 2024 campaign, having played five matches so far. Currently sitting in 3rd place on the Group E points table, the team has had a good run, losing just one match to Kerala. Thakur has been pivotal in Mumbai’s success, consistently delivering match-winning performances with the ball. In the five matches he has played so far, Thakur has never gone wicketless. His tournament tally now stands at 11 wickets, with standout performances including a three-wicket haul against Nagaland on December 1. Such displays underline his reliability and ability to deliver under? pressure.

Also READ: Fans tro??ll Prithvi Shaw after another duck in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024

Future prospects: A message to IPL franchises

Despite his undeniable talent and proven abilities in domestic cricket, Thakur’s unsold status at the IPL 2025 auction raised questions among fans ??and cricket analysts alike. His recent performances in SMAT 2024 are likely to serve as a reminder to IPL franchises of his potential and value as an all-rounder. Thakur’s versatility, experience, and leadership qualities make him a valuable asset in any T20 setup. It is hoped that the IPL ?selectors will take note of his incredible performances and ensure that Thakur gets the recognition and opportunities he truly deserves in future IPL auctions.

Also READ: 3 players ??who can captain Luck??now Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2025

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The Indian Premier League 2025 mega auction in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, delivered several surprises, with one of the most shocking being Indian all-rounder Shardul Thakur going unsold. The all-rounder, who was part of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the 2024 edition, entered the auction with a base price of INR 2 crore but failed to attract any?? bidders.

3 reasons why Shardul Thakur went unsold

1. Inconsistent IPL performances in recent years

Thakur’s decline in IPL form has been evident over the past few seasons. In the IPL 2024 edition, the all-rounder’s contributions fell well below expectations. Representing CSK, he managed to play only nine matches, where his bowling, once his forte, proved underwhelming. He claimed just five wickets at an average of 61.80 – significantly higher than the league standard.

As a batter,?? his performance was equally underwhelming. In the three innings he batted, Thakur scored only 21 runs, failing to establish himself as a reliable lower-order contributor. This consistent lack of impactful performances likely eroded the confidence of potential franchise buyers, leading to his omission from the IPL 2025 season.

Also READ: From Rishabh P?ant to Jofra Archer: Top 10 most expen?sive buys at IPL 2025 Mega Auction

2. Declining international appearances

A dwindling presence in international cricket further impacted Thakur’s IPL prospects. His last international appearance was a Test match against South Africa in December 2023, and his last ODI outing occurred in October 2023 against Bangladesh. Most notably, Thakur has been absent from India’s T20I s??quad since February 2022.

Given the highly specialized demands?? of the IPL, particularly in the fast-paced format, franchises tend to prioritize players ?who are regular contributors to T20Is. Shardul’s prolonged absence from this arena signaled to teams that he may no longer possess the sharpness or skills required to excel in the league.

3. Injury woes and fitness concerns

Injuries have also played a significant role in Shardul’s recent struggles. A foot injury sustained in June 2024 sidelined him for a considerable period, causing him to miss crucial matches and affecting his overall fitness. Although he returned to competitive cricket in October 2024, featuring in the Irani Cup for Mumbai against the Rest of India, his performance failed to inspire confidence.

In the match, Thakur scored a total of 38 runs across two innings, while his bowling – the primary aspect of his game – was ineffective, as he failed to claim a single wicket. For IPL franchises, these fitness concerns and lackluster comeback performances likely raised red flags about his ability to handle the rigors of the tournament.

Also READ: ‘Nepotism�? Fans roast MI over Arjun Tendulkar??’s last-minute-selection in the IPL ?2025 mega auction

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As the much-awaited Indian Premiere League 2025 mega auction approaches, franchises are gearing up to revamp their squads for a successful season. One player who is set to catch the attention of teams is Indian all-rounder Shardul Thakur. Known for his ability to deliver with both bat and ball, Shardul’s skills as a bowling all-rounder make him a valuable asset. Teams struggling with depth and consistency in their lineup are likely to target him as a key acquisition.

Why teams should covet Shardul Thakur’s skillset

The 2024 IPL season highlighted the importance of a reliable Indian all-rounder who can perform under pressure. Shardul’s knack for delivering breakthroughs with the ball and his potential to hit big shots in crunch moments have turned him into a sought-after player. Franchises looking to bolster their bo?wling attack and add batting depth see him as a game-changer. With his adaptability and experience, Thakur has all the tools to make a significant impact in IPL 2025.

Also READ: Dale Steyn predi??????????????????????????cts exa??ct IPL 2025 Auction price for Marco Jansen

3 franchises who can go after Shardul in IPL 2025 auction

1. Gujarat Titans

After dominating the 2022 and 2023 seasons, the Gujarat Titans faced a dismal campaign in 2024, finishing eighth. Their bowling unit, once a strength, faltered, with Mohit Sharma leading their wicket tally with a modest 13 wickets in 12 matches. However, Mohit hasnt been retained. Though, stalwarts like Rashid Khan and Shubman Gill have been retained but the Titans lack a specialist fast-bowling all-rounder who can deliver in critical?? moments.

Shardul could be the answer to their woes. His recent form and versat?ility make him a prime candidate to strengthen Gujarat’s bowling lineup. Thakur’s ability to swing the ball and pick wickets during powerplay overs, coupled with his batting capabilities, would provide much-needed balance to the Titans as they aim for a strong comeback in 2025.

2. Punjab Kings

The Punjab Kings ended the 2024 season in ninth place, struggling with an inconsistent bowling attack and a lack of firepower in the lower middle order. With their title drought continuing, the King??s need a dynamic player who can deliver with both bat and ball.

Shardul’s proven ability to perform under pressure aligns perfectly with Punjab’s requirements. His experience as a match-winner and ability to anchor innings or hit big in death overs could transform Punjab’s fortunes. Adding Shardul to their lineup would not only strengthen their bowling attack but also provide much-needed stability and depth to their batting.

3. Delhi Capitals

Shardul was part of the Delhi Capitals in the 2022 IPL season and ?left a mark with his all-around performances. With the Capitals eyeing a stronger showing in 2025, Thakur’s skills could once again prove invaluable??. His ability to bowl effectively in powerplay and death overs and contribute with the bat in high-pressure situations makes him an ideal candidate for the team’s all-rounder department.

Bringing back Shardul could add a layer of reliability to Delhi’s squad, complementing their existing core. His experience, combined with his familiarity with the franchise, could make him a seamless fit for the Capitals as they look t??o climb the points table in IPL 2025.

Also RE?AD: 3 teams that can target Rahmanullah Gurbaz in the IPL 2025 mega auction

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Ratan Tata, the revered industrialist, philanthropist, and former Chairman of Tata Sons, passed away on Wednesday (October 9) at the age of 86. Known for his business acumen and extraordinary leadership that shaped the global success of the Tata Group, Tata was equally admired for his philanthropic contributions that transformed lives across India. Beyond business and charity, Tata had a deep and enduri?ng love for sports, particularly cricket, a passion that saw him play a key role in supporting Indian cricket.

A lifelong passion of Ratan Tata for the game

While Ratan Tata’s accomplishments in the world of business are well-documented, his affection for cricket and his commitment to supporting the sport is less widely known but just as significant. Tata’s love for cricket went beyond being a mere spectator. His deep understanding of the game, coupled with a desire to uplift Indian talent, led the Tata Group to support numerous cricketers at the national and international levels. Under his guidance, the conglomerate became instrumental in nurturing Indian cricketers and providing opportunities that helped shape the careers of several cricketing legends.

The Tata Group, under Ratan Tata’s leadership, has long been a supporter of Indian cricket, with various companies under its umbrella playing pivotal roles in the careers of many cricketers. This connection stretches back decades and has seen both veterans and modern-day players benefit from the conglomerate’s extensive support network. Tata’s love for cricket and his visionary leadership made sure that his companies actively contributed to Indian cricket, helping players find stable employment while focusing on their game.

Also READ: From Sachin Tendulkar to Rohit Sharma: Cricket fraternity mo?urns the demi?se of Ratan Tata

The Tata Group’s profound connection with Indian cricket

Several cricketers owe part of their success to Tata Group-associated companies, particularly Air India, which played a significant role in supporting Indian cricketing talent. Legendary batter VVS Laxman, wicketkeeper-batsman Robin Uthappa, and former all-rounder Mohinder Amarnath were all associated with Air India. Similarly, former cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar also found support through the airline. T?hese players benefited not only financially but also gained the flexibility to focus on their sporting careers while working for a company that understood the value of cricket.

Another Tata-linked entity, Indian Airlines, provided opportunities to some of India’s most celebrated cricketers. All-rounder Yuvraj Singh, off-spinner Harbhajan Singh, and former middle-order batter Mohammad Kaif were among the notable names associated with Indian Airlines. Javagal Srinath, former fast bowler and now an ICC match referee, was also supported by this Tata-linked organization. Indian Airlines played a crucial role in providing cricketers with the financial backing and time they needed?? to hone their skills and compete at the highest level.

A legacy of supporting Indian cricket

The legacy of Tata Group’s involvement with cricket extends to other companies within the conglomerate as well. Former wicketkeeper-batter Farokh Engineer was supported by Tata Motors, while modern-day players such as bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur found backing through Tata Power. Tata Group’s commitment to supporting sports has allowed cricketers like these to excel in their careers, both on an?d off the field, providing them with a stable foundation.

Ajit Agarkar, a former cricketer and now the chief selector of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), was employed by Tata Steel, another arm of the Tata Group. His association with the conglomerate is a testament to Tata’s enduring commitment to Indian cricket. Additionally, former left-arm medium-fast bowler Rusi Framroze Surti was connected with the Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), another Tata Group enterprise. These associations highlight how deeply rooted the Tat??a Group has been in supporting Indian cricketers across generations.

Ratan Tata’s commitment to cricket was not just limited to business decisions but was part of his broader vision to support Indian sports. His passion for the game and the Tata Group’s long-standing involvement in cricket have left an indelible mark on the sport in India. From providing jobs to offering crucial financial backing, Tata’s legacy in cricket extends beyond his business empire, making a lasting contribution to the success of Indian cricket and the lives of many legendary players.

Also READ: Twitter Reactions: N??itish Reddy and Rinku Singh power India to a 2-0 series lead o??ver Bangladesh in the T20Is

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Indian pacer Shardul Thakur recently shared an in-depth account of the Indian Cricket team’s experiences during their historic win at Gabba in Brisbane, marking the final test of the India Tour of Australia 2020-2021. Thakur’s revelations shed light on the adversities faced by the team, both on and off the field.

Shardul Thakur reveals Indian team challenges 

During an interactive session, a fan asked about the emotions following the monumental victory at Gabba. Shardul responded candidly, highlighting the numerous challenges the team endured, “The way they treated us was very horrible for four or five days. There was no room service in the hotel. If you wanted to change the bedsheet, you had to walk up four or five floors to get it yourself, even when you were tired.”

Shardul also discussed the Queensland governor’s comments expressing reluctance to host the Indian team, adding pressure with negative remarks, “Going from Sydney to Brisbane, we heard the lady governor of Queensland saying that if Indians do not want to come, well, do not come. We do not want to host them, or we are not happily hosting them. There were a lot of negative things said about us that put us under pressure.”

Shardul accused Tim Paine of lying, claiming he falsely portrayed that no pressure had been applied and that they had met all demands, “I heard an interview from Tim Paine. That man was absolutely lying because he was saving himself by making up things in the media, covering up that they did not put any pressure on the Indian team and that they gave us whatever we wanted.”

Here is the video:

Shardul Thakur talking about on Australia tour in 2020/21 and their facilities and words for Indian Team. 🇮🇳pic.twitter.com/KBpfIQ35bE

— Tanuj Singh (@ImTanujSingh) August 6, 2024

Also READ: Tilak?? Varma’s humorous comment on Ravindra Jadeja’s phone booth post

Injuries and problems faced by the Indian cricket team

Shardul further elaborated that Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli had left and frequently clashed with the Cricket Board of Australia for necessary support, “Our coach, Ravi Shastri, and Virat Kohli had left. Ajinkya Rahane was leading. They both were regularly fighting with the Cricket Board of Australia to get the things we needed.”

In the end Shardul said that the tour was challenging with multiple injuries, including Navdeep Saini and Natarajan. In the final innings, Mohammed Siraj and I bowled nine overs each and ignored the Australians post-victory, “It was difficult the whole tour. Injuries kept happening. Even in the last game, Navdeep Saini got injured, Natrajan also got injured, and in the second innings, Siraj and I bowled nine overs each. For the first time ever, we didn’t even look at the Australians after winning. We said, ‘go and sit back in your dressing room.”

Despite the numerous obstacles, the Indian Cricket team emerged victorious, clinching the series 2-1. The win at Gabba, in particular, has been etched in history as a testament to the team’s resilience, determination, and indomitable spirit.

Also READ: WATCH: A lookalik??e of Virat Kohli spotted among protesters ??in Bangladesh

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In a thrilling display of resilience, Shardul Thakur showcased his batting prowess by scoring his maiden first-class century during the Ranji Trophy 2023-24 semifinal match between Mumbai and Tamil Nadu??.

Shardul Thakur’s blazing ton

Despite being dropped from India’s Test squad ahead the ongoing series against England, the versatile all-rounder emerged as a beacon of hope for Mumbai after Tamil Nadu skipper Sai Kishore wreaked havoc with a stunning five-wicket haul. Shardul’s remarkable century, achieved in just 89 deliveries and sealed with a powerful six, bolstered Mumbai’s fightback from a precarious position.

Reverberating cheers echoed in the Mumbai dressing room as Thakur’s valiant innings steered the team to a commanding first-innings lead. His century came at a critical juncture for Mumbai, with the team struggling at 106/7 before his remarkable feat.

Here’s the video:

Shardul Thakur gets to his century in style 🔥🔥

What a time to score your maiden first-class 💯

The celebrations say it all 👌👌@imShard | @IDFCFIRSTBank | #RanjiTrophy | #MUMvTN | #SF2

Follow the match ▶️ //t.co/9tosMLk9TT pic.twitter.com/3RI9Sap6DO

— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) March 3, 2024

Also WATCH: Sai Kishore bamboozles Ajinkya? Rahane, Musheer Khan and others with brilliant bowling in Ranji Trophy semi-final

A look at Shardul Thakur’s FC numbers

With 1,874 runs accumulated across 81 first-class appearance??s at an average of approximately 17, Shardu?l has showcased his batting prowess on multiple occasions.

Despite this being his maiden FC century, Shardul has scored 11 half-centuries. T??he 32-year-old has shown his batting skills in Test cricket as well, amassing 331 runs in 11 matches, with four half-centuries to his name. His previous best score in FC cricket was 87.

Additionally, Shardul has proven his mettle with the ball, having claimed an impressive tally of 260 wickets in FC cricket, cementing his status as a valuable a?sset for Mumbai and Indian cricket.

Also READ: Here are the updated WTC 2023-25 rankings after Australia’s?? win over New Zealand in Wellington Test

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In a candid revelation that adds a layer of intrigue to the world of cricket, Indian all-rounder Shardul Thakur has disclosed what he considers to be the most formidable challenge in Test cricket. As Team India brace themselves for the upcoming Boxing Day Test, Thakur’s insights bring attention to a crucial factor that could shape the outcome of the game.

Shardul Thakur names the most difficult country for Test cricket

Thakur, a pivotal figure in Rohit Sharma’s Indian cricket squad, didn’t mince words when he spoke about the formidable challenges of playing Test cricket in South Africa. Acknowledging the unpredictable pitch conditions, Thakur emphasized the need for adaptability, suggesting that it’s impossible to predict the nature of the playing surface across the country.

“I think South Africa is one of the most difficult countries to play Test cricket in. Considering the pitch conditions, even if we play all over the country, this is one country where you can’t expect what you will get from the pitch, so it’s very important to go out there play the game and on the game day, you judge the conditions of the pitch, of the ground, and how it is and put yourself in a position to give your best according to that,” said Thakur in a conversation with Ravichandran Ashwin.

Also READ: Top 5 prolific century ma??kers in South Africa vs India Test series

Unseen altitude hurdles

Beyond the pitch conditions, Thakur shed light on another critical aspect �?the high altitude of South Africa. Expressing the need for players to acclimatize to the unique conditions, he stressed the significance of managing breathlessness during physical exertion, be it while b?owling or running between the wickets.

“Right now, I am just getting acclimatised to the weather, and I also learnt that this is a little high in the altitude. So, on the day when you shouldn’t be short of breath, when you’re doing some running around or bowling, it’s very important to get the feel. When you’re short of breath, still manage that and bowl out there or if you’re batting, running between the wickets, how you can still continue your innings, so that is about one of the most challenging conditions in South Africa,” he added.

Also READ: SA vs IND 2023-24: India’s best XI for the fi??rst Test agai?nst South Africa

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The IPL 2024 Auction created waves of excitement and anticipation among cricket enthusiasts, and one of the most heartwarming moments was the return of Shardul Thakur to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Bought for a staggering INR 4 crore, Shardul’s journey back to the yellow brigade was celebrated with joyous fervour at the CSK camp.

Shardul Thakur’s CSK connection and previous stint with KKR

Shardul’s connection with CSK runs deep, having been an integral part of their victorious campaigns in 2018 and 2021. His prowess with both bat and ball has contributed significantly to the team’s success, making him a beloved figure among the CSK faithful before he was bought by Delhi Capitals (DC) in the IPL 2022 Auction. However, he was later traded to Kolkata Knight Rider (KKR) franchise for a hefty sum of INR 10.5 crore ahead of the sixteenth edition of the?? league.

Despite his undeniable talent, Shardul had a below-par season and could b??ag just 7 wickets in 11 matches, donning the KKR jersey in the p??revious IPL season.

Shardul’s return to yellow army

Released by KKR ahead of the IPL 2024 Auction, Shardul found his way back to the yellow army. The news of his retur?n was met with jubilation among CSK fans, and the anticipation of witnessing Shardul back in action was palpable.

Also READ: Fans go crazy as Mitchell Starc shatters records, becomes the costliest buy ??in IPL history

Shardul changes KKR jersey with CSK kit

As Shardul set foot on familiar turf, the CSK faithful were treated to a heartwarming spectacle. In a touch?ing display of loyalty, Shardul was captured changing his KKR jersey to don the iconic CSK kit. The video, released by the CSK official page on various social media platforms, quickly went viral, encapsulating the essence of his return.

Here’s the video:

Yellove is where the heart is! 💛 pic.twitter.com/zt3ICTZK83

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) December 19, 2023

What does Shardul bring to CSK camp?

Shardul’s addition to CSK brings a dual dimension to the team’s lineup. With 286 runs and 89 wickets in 86 IPL appearances, Shardul has showcased his ability to contribute significantly with both bat and ball. His versatility adds depth to the CSK squad, making him a valuable asset for the upcoming season.

Also READ: Twitterati can’t keep calm as Sunrisers Hyderabad acquire??s Travis Head in IPL 2024 Auction

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India all-rounder Shardul Thakur finds himself amid a new chapter as he bids farewell to the IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders. The veteran cricketer, who has donned the Knight Riders’ jersey in IPL 2023, is set to embark on a new journey in the upcoming IPL 2024 auction.

Decoding Shardul Thakur’s value in IPL auction 2024

As the eminent bidding war stands beside, Shardul is a notable name in the pool of players up f?or grabs. As franchises weigh their options and strategy takes center stage, he remains a prized asset, with multiple teams vying for his signature in their quest for the upcoming edition of IPL.

Five teams that could eye on Shardul Thakur in IPL 2024 auction

1. Delhi Capitals

Delhi Capitals might emerge as a front-runner in the race to acquire Shardul. With the release of several key players ahead of IPL 2024, the ??Capitals could strategically target the seasoned all-rounder. Additionally, he has a history with Delhi, having played for them in the IPL 2022, making it a potential homecoming for the cricketer.

2. Gujarat Titans

The departure of Hardik Pandya, who was traded to Mumbai Indians, has left a strategic void in the Titans’ squad. In a bid to fill this gap, the Titans’ management could set their sights on Shardul. His all-round abilities and experience could make him an ideal candidate to strengthen the Team’s lineup.

3. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)

Despite securing Cameron Green in a trade deal with Mumbai, RCB might surprise?? everyone by targeting Shardul in the auction. The importance of a ?seasoned Indian all-rounder cannot be understated, and the management could see Shardul as a valuable addition to bolster their squad for the upcoming season.

4. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)

Interestingly, despite releasing the Maharashtra-based cricketer for the upcoming season, Knight Riders might consider bringing ??him back into the fold. With the ?opportunity to rope him in at a potentially lower price than his previous INR 10.75 crore deal, the franchise could orchestrate a strategic move to reacquire the services of the versatile all-rounder.

Also READ: 7 Indian players expected to fetch big money in IP?L 2024 Aucti?on

5. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

Chennai Super Kings, the joint-most successful Team in IPL history, might contemplate bringing back the 32-year-old for a second stint with the franchise. Shardul was a crucial part of Chennai’s title triumph in 2018 and 2021, and the Super Kings could be keen on rekindling that successful partnership in the upcoming season.

Also READ: 6 teams that can target M??ustafizur Rahman in the IPL 2024 auction

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