Shardul Thakur has emerged as a key player for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2025, showcasing his bowling prowess with a stunning performance against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).
Initially going unsold during the IPL auction, Thakur was signed as a replacement for Mohsin Khan and has since become the leading wicket-taker of the season, earning the coveted Purple Cap after just two matches.
A Fiery Spell Against SRH
In LSG’s recent match against SRH at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Thakur delivered a career-best performance, claiming four wickets for just 34 runs in his four overs.
His spell was instrumental in restricting SRH to a total of 190 runs, which many considered below par on a pitch known for its high-scoring potential.
Thakur’s early breakthroughs were crucial; he dismissed both Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan off consecutive deliveries in the third over, sending Kishan back for a golden duck after his impressive century in the previous match.
Despite an aggressive counterattack from Travis Head, who scored 47 runs off 28 balls, Thakur’s relentless bowling kept SRH’s scoring in check.
He later returned to claim the wickets of Abhinav Manohar and veteran pacer Mohammed Shami, solidifying his position as LSG’s leading bowler.
Milestone Achievement
Thakur’s performance not only marked his best figures in the IPL but also saw him join the exclusive 100-wicket club in the tournament.
His achievement of four wickets against SRH is now the second-best match performance this season, placing him at the top of the Purple Cap leaderboard with six wickets across two matches. This impressive feat has revived his reputation as one of the league’s most effective bowlers.
Reflecting on his journey, Thakur expressed gratitude for being given another chance to showcase his skills.
“It’s always good to be on the scoresheet, but winning the game is important to me,” he stated after the match.
His humility and focus on team success resonate with fans and teammates alike.
The Comeback Story
Thakur’s journey to this point has been anything but straightforward. After going unsold in the IPL 2025 auction, he faced uncertainty about his future in the league.
However, his consistent performances in domestic cricket caught the attention of LSG management, leading to his signing as an injury replacement.
This opportunity has allowed him to prove his worth on one of cricket’s biggest stages.
Zaheer Khan, former Indian cricketer and current bowling coach for LSG, played a pivotal role in bringing Thakur into the squad.
His faith in Thakur’s abilities has paid off handsomely, as evidenced by Thakur’s impactful performances early in the season.
