25 March 2025
In an unexpected move ahead of the IPL 2025 season, Shardul Thakur has joined the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as they battle a wave of injuries crippling their pace attack. Thakur, known for his seam bowling and all-round skills, steps in as a vital replacement for Mohsin Khan, who has been sidelined with an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear.
The loss of Mohsin Khan, who was integral to LSG's bowling strategy, came after he suffered the injury during the Vijay Hazare Trophy in December. His absence is a significant blow, especially with other key players like Mayank Yadav, Akash Deep, and Avesh Khan also out due to various injuries. The management has indicated that Mayank might return by mid-April, but both Akash and Avesh are likely to miss the first three matches, leaving the team's pace attack severely weakened.
Thakur, who missed out on a spot during the mega auction last November, was promptly signed from the Registered Available Player Pool (RAPP) for his reserve price of ₹2 crore. This addition marks Thakur's sixth team in the Indian Premier League, having previously played for five other franchises, including the Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders. His versatility on the field is anticipated to fill the void left by the injured bowlers and bring a renewed energy to the group's dynamics.
Currently with the LSG squad in Visakhapatnam, Thakur and his teammates are gearing up for their season opener against the Delhi Capitals on March 24. Despite the setbacks, the team is focused on fielding a strong competitive side. Under the guidance of the new captain Rishabh Pant, who has replaced KL Rahul, LSG is determined to improve from their seventh-place finish last year.
Zaheer Khan, the franchise mentor, has addressed the team’s adaptability as paramount, given the unpredictability of injuries. He reiterated the franchise's commitment to maintaining a competitive edge despite these challenges. Thakur's decision to prioritize the IPL over his deal with Essex in county cricket highlights his dedication to contributing to the team's success.
As the IPL season unfolds, the focus will be on how LSG navigates these initial hurdles. The strategic inclusion of experienced players like Thakur is expected to play a crucial role in boosting the team’s prospects, while the franchise hopes to keep its aspirations high and fans engaged throughout the season.
