Mumbai’s fast-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur who was not picked in India’s squad for the five-Test series against England played a belligerent knock of 105 in the Ranji Trophy 2023-24 semi-final against Tamil Nadu. Thakur counter-attacked after Mumbai lost seven wickets for 106 and put the hosts in a commanding position despite a batting collapse.
Thakur’s celebration
In the 81st over of the innings, Thakur smashed left-arm spinner S Ajith Ram for a maximum to reach the three figures for the first time in his career. Initially, Thakur did not break into wild celebrations. As players and support staff in the dugout including skipper Ajinkya Rahane cheered, Thakur jumped in the air, pumped his fists, and signalled toward his teammates to celebrate the milestone.
Kishore lays the trap
Thakur came in to bat at no.9 as Mohit Avasthi was sent as nightwatchman on Day 1. Tamil Nadu skipper Ravisrinivasan Sai Kishore rushed through Mumbai's batting lineup. First, he dismissed the Avasthi. Rahane played patiently and was not given many opportunities to score. He succumbed to pressure and was dismissed by Sai Kishore as well.
Mumbai's high-profile batter Shreyas Iyer who was in the news after getting dropped from the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) annual retainership list of central contracts got bowled by Sandeep Warrier. He managed to score just three runs. Then Shams Mulani was sent ahead of Thakur. Sai Kishore dismissed both Musheer Khan and Mulani in the same over.
Thakur’s rescue act
Thakur and wicketkeeper-batter Hardik Tamore helped Mumbai get rid of the trail. Thakur attacked the spinners. He played the cut shot, went down the ground, pulled, and swept to help Mumbai dominate. He reached his half-century with a six. Tamore’s wicket did not slow him down. He accelerated and reached his century with a six off Ajith Ram. He departed after scoring 109 runs from 105 balls. His fabulous knock featured 13 fours and four sixes.
Before hitting his maiden first-class ton, his previous best score was 87 in the format. The closest he has got to a century was in List A cricket when he scored 92 runs.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
