Former India opener Aakash Chopra praised all-rounder Shardul Thakur’s remarkable performance during the Caribbean tour. Thakur’s memorable campaign in the three-match ODI series has earned him a spot in contention for India’s World Cup squad. With eight wickets in the series, Thakur emerged as the highest wicket-taker, showcasing his ability to break partnerships in the middle overs.
According to Aakash Chopra, India’s World Cup squad has a vacant spot for a fourth seamer, and Shardul Thakur has seized the opportunity to stake his claim for the position. Thakur’s knack for picking up crucial wickets, particularly against the run of play, could be an asset for the team in the upcoming 50-over World Cup in October-November.
Chopra commended Shardul Thakur’s impressive performance, stating that he has been the leading wicket-taker for India in ODIs since the 2019 World Cup. Thakur’s consistency and ability to deliver under pressure have made him a strong contender for the coveted World Cup spot.
“You need to praise Lord Thakur a lot. Lord Thakur has picked up the most wickets for India in ODIs since the 2019 World Cup. The good thing is that a place is vacant for the World Cup. The question was who can be the fourth fast bowler after (Jasprit) Bumrah, (Mohammad) Shami, and (Mohammed) Siraj,” Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel.
Chopra also discussed the fourth fast bowler position competition, which included Umran Malik. However, Thakur’s outstanding performances have put him ahead in the race for the spot, leaving Malik behind in contention. While Malik might excel in T20 matches, Thakur’s current form has almost confirmed his spot for the World Cup.
“It seems like Lord Thakur has become the answer to that question currently. Umran Malik has fallen behind in that list suddenly, although he might do well in the T20s and we start talking about him, but for now, it seems like Lord Thakur’s World Cup looks almost confirmed.” Chopra explained.
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In the decisive third ODI against the West Indies at the Brian Lara Stadium, India posted a formidable total of 351. Shardul Thakur and the Indian bowling attack performed brilliantly, with Mukesh Kumar and Kuldeep Yadav contributing with the ball. Jaydev Unadkat, playing an ODI after a decade, also impressed by taking a wicket. The bowlers dismissed the West Indies for 151, leading India to a resounding victory by 200 runs and clinching the series 2-1.
