IPL 2025: Shardul Thakur Storms into 100-Wicket Club with Fiery Spell Against SRH!

Thakur Wreaks Havoc in Hyderabad

Thakur was the standout performer for LSG in their high-octane clash against SRH at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. Bowling first after LSG won the toss, the Indian speedster struck early, sending SRH reeling with a double blow in the powerplay.

He removed Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan off consecutive deliveries, reducing the hosts to 15/2. Later, he returned in the death overs to dismiss Abhinav Manohar and veteran pacer Mohammed Shami, capping off a remarkable spell of 4/34 in four overs.

This was Thakur's best-ever performance in the IPL, surpassing his previous best of 4/36 for Delhi Capitals in 2022. His spell, laced with 11 dot balls, played a crucial role in restricting SRH to 190/9-a total considered below par on a batting-friendly Hyderabad pitch.

Thakur's Reaction to the Landmark

Thakur, who has seen his share of ups and downs in the IPL, reflected on his achievement with humility.

"In IPL, all these things keep happening. Unfortunately, a few injuries here and there led to inquiries about my availability. But LSG approached me first, so I had to accept it. Zaheer Khan gave me a call."

He emphasised that personal milestones take a backseat to team success.

"It's always good to be on the scoresheet, but winning the game is important to me. I keep doing something or the other. I don't look much at the wickets or runs column; I just want to put in match-winning performances."

A Journey of Persistence: From Unsold to Match-Winner

Thakur's IPL 2025 campaign had an unusual start. Despite being an experienced campaigner with previous stints at Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Delhi Capitals, he surprisingly went unsold in the mega auction.

However, fortune favoured him when LSG roped him in as a replacement for the injured Mohsin Khan. Since then, he has made the most of his opportunities, proving his worth in crucial moments.

LSG's Tactical Brilliance Pays Off

SRH, known for their aggressive batting approach at home, were expected to cross the 200-run mark with ease. However, LSG's bowlers, led by Thakur, executed their plans to perfection.

Thakur himself explained the team's aggressive mindset:

"They are coming hard at bowlers, so why not go hard at them? The plan was to collectively attack. We thought if we got early wickets, we'd do well because they have been going heavy from the start on flat pitches."

His efforts were complemented by LSG's disciplined bowling unit. Prince Yadav played a key role, dismissing Travis Head and contributing to Heinrich Klaasen's unfortunate run-out. Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, and Yash Thakur also chipped in, ensuring SRH never gained full control.

The Road Ahead for LSG

With SRH restricted to 190/9, LSG's batting unit was set a competitive but chaseable target on a batting-friendly surface. The onus was now on their top order to deliver.

As the IPL 2025 season progresses, Thakur's resurgence serves as an inspiring story of resilience. From going unsold at the auction to becoming LSG's key weapon, he has once again proven his mettle on the grandest T20 stage.