Veteran batter Ajinkya Rahane has come out in support of Shardul Thakur following heavy criticism over his performance in India’s loss at Headingley, Leeds. Thakur, selected as the fast-bowling all-rounder, struggled with both bat and ball—scoring just 1 and 4 in the two innings. His bowling was underutilized in the first innings, where skipper Shubman Gill handed him only six overs. Though Thakur conceded runs at an economy of over six, he made a brief impact in the second innings by picking up two crucial wickets, but failed to maintain momentum as India fell short.
After the defeat, many fans and experts questioned Shardul’s place in the playing XI, calling for his replacement in the next Test by either Nitish Kumar Reddy or a specialist spinner like Kuldeep Yadav. However, Rahane, who has shared the dressing room with Thakur extensively at the domestic level, suggested that the Indian team management—particularly captain Shubman Gill—should show greater faith in the all-rounder’s bowling potential. Rahane emphasized that Thakur’s past overseas performances prove his value, especially as someone who can swing the ball both ways and take key wickets.
“I feel an all-rounder’s role is very important,” Rahane stated on his YouTube channel. “Shardul Thakur has experience and has done well in overseas Tests. I want to see him bowl more overs. If used properly—either as first change or with the new ball—he can swing it both ways and become a wicket-taking option. The Indian team can definitely benefit by utilizing him more effectively,” he added. Rahane’s remarks reflect a belief that better tactical deployment, rather than exclusion, could bring out the best in Thakur.
