England vs India: Ajinkya Rahane Recommends Role Shift for Shardul Thakur ahead of 2nd Test

Former Indian captain Ajinkya Rahane has suggested a new role for all-rounder Shardul Thakur in the 2nd Test, following a lackluster performance in the series opener that didn’t leave much of an impression.

Shardul, who bowled 16 overs across both innings in the first Test, conceded 89 runs and picked up two wickets those of Ben Duckett and Harry Brook in the second innings which briefly gave India a chance to fight back. However, England went on to comfortably win the match by five wickets.

Rahane Backs Shardul to Share New Ball Duties in 2nd Test

Though Thakur was selected for his ability to bowl longer spells with the old ball, he bowled just 6 overs in the first innings and 10 in the second. Many experts felt he was underused and deserved more responsibility.

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Rahane echoed that sentiment, suggesting Thakur should be handed the new ball alongside Jasprit Bumrah, citing his ability to swing the ball both ways.

“With the Duke ball, it generally starts to behave after 10 or 12 overs. If Shardul can start the bowling with Bumrah and Siraj comes in as first change, that will be great. I would like to see Shardul bowling more overs. Give him that freedom; he will get you more wickets,” Rahane said on his YouTube channel.

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Shubman Gill Underused Shardul, Says Rahane

Rahane also pointed out that Shubman Gill underused Thakur in the first Test, and emphasized the value of maximizing his swing-bowling potential.

“I feel an all-rounder's role is very important. Shardul Thakur has been an experienced player and has done well in Test cricket overseas. I want to see more overs from Shardul. If the Indian team can use him in a better way, that will be great. Whatever I’ve seen, he can swing the ball both ways and is a wicket-taker. Whether bowling first change or even with the new ball, he can make an impact,” he added.

Thakur was preferred over Nitish Kumar Reddy in the XI for his ability to bowl longer spells, but his limited use raised questions. While some experts have suggested dropping him, Rahane has backed him with a new role ahead of the 2nd Test. With Jasprit Bumrah reportedly unavailable, Thakur’s responsibilities are likely to increase.

Stay tuned for more updates on the India tour of England 2025.