Shardul Thakur, the enigmatic all-rounder, has carved a niche for himself in Indian cricket with his unique blend of skills and unwavering determination. Known affectionately as “Lord” or “Beefy,” he has earned a reputation as a match-winner and a cult hero.
Growing up in a humble background in Palghar, Thakur’s journey to the pinnacle of cricket was not without its challenges. Despite his passion for the sport, he initially aspired to become a cricketer like Sachin Tendulkar. However, it was only after being selected for the Ranji Trophy that he realized his true potential.
Thakur’s rise to prominence was marked by his ability to deliver under pressure. He credits his upbringing and the hardships he faced for instilling in him a resilience that has become his trademark. “I like to excel in tough situations,” he says. “That’s what brings the best out of me.”
One of Thakur’s most memorable performances came in the 2019 ODI World Cup, where he emerged as India’s highest wicket-taker among seamers. Despite his impressive contribution, he faced criticism and was often dropped from the team. However, Thakur remained unfazed, believing that he deserved a fair chance to prove his worth.
“I understand that competition is always good,” he says. “But all I am saying is that you should be fair to everyone. Shouldn’t be like one fellow has one bad game and he is dropped, whereas another fellow is persisted with despite having two or five bad games.”
Thakur’s determination and self-belief have paid off. He has become a vital cog in the Chennai Super Kings franchise in the Indian Premier League and has earned a regular spot in the Indian Test team. His ability to swing the ball both ways and his aggressive batting style have made him a formidable all-rounder.
Despite his success, Thakur remains grounded and grateful for the opportunities he has been given. He credits his coaches and mentors for shaping his career and helping him overcome challenges. “I have never thought about what I would have been had I not been a cricketer,” he says. “I am just fortunate to be able to do what I love.”
