Shardul Thakur accuses Gautam Gambhir-led management of mentally disturbing him
Shardul Thakur Opens Up About Being Left Out of Border-Gavaskar Trophy Squad
Indian all-rounder Shardul Thakur recently spoke about his disappointment at not being selected for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) against Australia, where the Indian team suffered a 1-3 defeat. Thakur admitted that the first two days after seeing his name missing from the India Test squad were particularly tough for him.
Thakur’s Absence and Optimism for Future Opportunities
Known for his ability to perform in crucial moments with both bat and ball, Shardul Thakur has been absent from India’s Test team since the 2023-24 South Africa tour. In an interview with Boria Majumdar on Revsportz, Thakur confessed that being left out of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy squad was quite disturbing for him.
However, Thakur emphasized that as professional cricketers, they understand that ups and downs are part of the journey. He decided not to dwell on the setback and instead focused on future opportunities. Thakur stated, “If I wanted to achieve more in cricket, I could not dwell on the rejection anymore. There was optimism that if any opportunity came my way, I should be ready.”
Thakur’s Approach and Performance
Despite the disappointment of being left out of the squad, Thakur revealed that he focused on his basics rather than putting in desperate efforts. He highlighted the importance of taking wickets at regular intervals and delivering performances in knockout stages as his motivation.
Thakur’s outstanding all-round form in the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy further showcased his capabilities. He averaged 40.2 with the bat and 19.96 with the ball during the tournament. Thakur’s standout performance included scoring 119 against Jammu & Kashmir when his team was struggling at 91/6 and grabbing a hat-trick in a crucial match against Meghalaya.
Potential Return to Team India
Team India has faced consecutive series defeats in the Test format, first against New Zealand at home and then in Australia. With a challenging five-match Test series against England approaching in June, there is speculation that recalling Thakur could strengthen the squad.
Thakur’s determination to bounce back from setbacks, his focus on continuous improvement, and his exceptional performances in domestic cricket make him a valuable asset for the Indian team. As fans eagerly await the squad announcement for the upcoming series against England, Thakur’s inclusion could provide the much-needed balance and firepower to the team.
Overall, Shardul Thakur’s resilience and commitment to his craft continue to inspire cricket enthusiasts, showcasing that setbacks can fuel success with the right mindset and dedication to the game.
Shardul Thakur’s Mental Toughness and Adaptability
One of the key attributes that sets Shardul Thakur apart is his mental toughness and adaptability. Despite facing setbacks and being left out of high-profile series like the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Thakur has shown resilience and a strong work ethic to continue improving his game.
Thakur’s ability to bounce back from disappointments and focus on the opportunities ahead speaks volumes about his character. His dedication to honing his skills and staying prepared for any chance to represent India reflects a professional attitude that is essential in the competitive world of cricket.
Domestic Dominance and International Aspirations
Thakur’s stellar performances in domestic cricket, especially in the Ranji Trophy, have not gone unnoticed. His consistent displays with both bat and ball have positioned him as a strong contender for a return to the Indian Test squad. Thakur’s knack for delivering under pressure and in crucial situations makes him a valuable asset in the longer format of the game.
As Thakur continues to impress in domestic competitions and showcase his all-round abilities, the clamor for his inclusion in the national team grows louder. Fans and experts alike recognize his potential to make a significant impact on the international stage and contribute to India’s success in Test cricket.
Strategic Role in Team India’s Bowling Line-up
With Team India facing challenges in their bowling department, particularly in the pace bowling department, Shardul Thakur’s versatility and skill set make him a compelling option for the upcoming Test series against England. His ability to swing the ball, generate crucial breakthroughs, and contribute valuable runs down the order can add depth and balance to the team’s bowling line-up.
Thakur’s experience in varied conditions and his adaptability to different match situations make him a strategic asset for the Indian team. His inclusion could provide captain Virat Kohli with a reliable bowling option that can complement the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami in the quest for victory against England.
Final Thoughts
As Shardul Thakur continues his journey in pursuit of a permanent spot in Team India’s Test squad, his determination, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence serve as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers and fans alike. The upcoming series against England presents a golden opportunity for Thakur to showcase his skills on the grand stage and carve out a significant role in India’s Test cricket setup.
Whether Thakur’s return to the national team materializes in the upcoming series or in the future, one thing is certain – his passion for the game and relentless pursuit of success will continue to drive him towards achieving his goals and making a lasting impact in the world of cricket.


