The third test between India and England in Leeds created several speaking points, but the one that increased the eyebrows between fans and scientists is a mysterious insufficient not to use Sharduula Thakura in the first English shift. Although Thakur was an experienced contributor in overseas tests, in the first shifts, only six exceeded in the first shifts – divided into two short spells.
Shardul Thakur, often perceived as the fourth sailor of India under overseas conditions, was Captain Shubman Gill barely used in a situation that probably demanded more diversity and control in bowling attack. While Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj tried to do premature penetration, Thakur’s role remained strangely limited. His bowling share in these shifts was only 6 percent – a steep decline from its historical average.
Thakur’s test record suggests that he is more than able to hold his own. In the unforgettable Brisbane 2021 test against Australia, Thakur in one shift – most in his test career – was most played in the Indian historical victory in Gabba 24 overs in only one shift. Despite the test career before the Leeds game, on average, he diameter around 13 overs for shifts, which is considered a healthy contribution for the third or fourth sailor, especially on foreign land. SHARDUULA THAKURA NUMBERS
What do the numbers say?
Before the Leeds test, Thakur played 11 tests, and in these games he brought 16 percent of the total Indian exceeding – a decent share, given that the Indian frontline is rarely fast. In these matches, Indian pitch -poders took a total of 187 goals, of which Thakur declared 31, which contributed to 17 percent of total release – impressive figures for someone who was often deployed as a supporting pitch.
On the other hand, with the Leeds: Thakur test, only 6 overs were bowed in the first shifts, which was only 6 percent of India’s total supplies. Despite the obvious lack of penetration from the main pace of the attack, questions have raised questions about tactical decisions in the field. When Siraj and Krishna do not find their rhythm, many believed that Thakur’s controlled bowling and talent for picking up the key goal could be better used.
SharDula redemption at 2. Exchange
In the second shifts Gill seemingly repaired the course. Thakur got a longer charm and made a noticeable impact. He bowed 10 overs, ended up with the characters 2/51 and claimed the key goals Ben Ducketta (149) and Harry Brook (Golden Duck), induction of hope for an Indian return. His bowling share in the second shift increased to 12.19 percent of 82 Overs Bowled – closer to his typical involvement.
India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir was also asked for Shardul’s insufficient use in the game and revealed that Captain Shaubman Gill bowed to Jadeja more in the first shifts when he gave good control, allowing three sailors to turn from the other end.
“Sometimes the captain goes with his instincts and Ravindra Jadeja control in the first shifts that were important, and we could turn our three pacers at the other end. We know what Shardul’s quality is and is playing for India and in the dressing room.
SHARDUL Thakur has strictly showed that he can contribute with the ball when they believe with responsibility. While his role in the first shifts of the Leeds test was unusually limited, his performance in the second shift reaffirmed his value to the Indian team – especially in overseas conditions, where balance and adaptability in the bowling line -up is essential.
Whether the initial supervision was a tactical incorrect step or a calculated gambling that did not pay off remains questionable. But one thing is clear: the case of Sharduula Thakura in Leeds serves as a reminder that the most effective tools are sometimes those that remained in the shed.
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Published:
Rishabh beniwal
Published on:
June 25, 2025
