In a stunning display of skill and precision, Mumbai's Shardul Thakur etched his name into Ranji Trophy history books with a sensational hat-trick against Meghalaya. The match, pivotal for Mumbai's progression in the tournament's knockout stages, witnessed Thakur dismantle Meghalaya's batting lineup at the Wankhede Stadium.
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| Image Credits: myKhel |
Thakur's hat-trick came early in the game, on the first day, when he dismissed B Anirudh, Sumit Kumar, and Jaskirat Singh in consecutive deliveries in just his second over. This remarkable feat not only put Mumbai in a commanding position but also highlighted Thakur's return to form after a period of absence from the national team.
His performance was not just about the hat-trick; prior to this match, Thakur had already claimed 17 wickets in the season, showcasing his all-round prowess with both bat and ball.
The hat-trick made Thakur the fifth bowler from Mumbai to achieve this in the Ranji Trophy, joining the likes of Royston Dias and Abdul Ismail. His contribution was crucial as Mumbai aimed for a bonus point win, essential for their qualification hopes.
This performance has reignited discussions about Thakur's potential inclusion in the Indian team, especially with the England tour looming later in June this year. His ability to swing the ball and his knack for taking crucial wickets could be invaluable.
