Shardul Thakur, the ever-energetic Mumbai all-rounder, finds himself sidelined from the 2024 Ranji Trophy due to an ankle injury sustained during the South Africa tour. While fans eagerly await his return, Mumbai remain patient, anxiously awaiting the NCA’s green light for Thakur’s comeback.
The 32-year-old, dropped after the Centurion Test, was initially expected to join Mumbai for their third group stage clash against Kerala. However, the National Cricket Academy (NCA) advised two weeks of rest, putting his Ranji return on hold. Now, as Mumbai prepare for their fifth match against Bengal, the question remains: When will Shardul Thakur return to the red-ball fold?
“We’re still waiting on the NCA’s Return to Play report,” explains Mumbai chief selector Raju Kulkarni as per Sportskeeda. “We can’t pick him until then, but we’re hopeful to have him back by the sixth round game against Chhatisgarh.”
Shardul Thakur absence is a blow to Mumbai’s aspirations. Having started the season with three wins, their momentum was halted by a narrow loss to Uttar Pradesh. Thakur’s experience and firepower could be the missing piece they need to reclaim their dominance.
Shardul Thakur eyes IPL 2024
While Ranji Trophy fans miss his flamboyant bowling and aggressive batting, Thakur’s sights are likely set on a larger prize: the 2024 T20 World Cup. His recent acquisition by Chennai Super Kings for ₹4 crore in the IPL mini-auction adds fuel to this speculation. Strong performances in the IPL could pave the way for a national team recall.
However, before dreaming of global glory, Shardul Thakur must conquer the domestic grind. His return to the Ranji stage, whenever it happens, will be a welcome sight for Mumbai and cricket fans alike. The wait might be frustrating, but the hope is that when Shardul Thakur finally takes the field, he’ll do so with renewed vigor and a hunger to prove his mettle once again.
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