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Shardul Thakur, who joined Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as a replacement player for IPL 2025, made an immediate impact, delivering a match-winning performance against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Hyderabad. The all-rounder showcased his bowling prowess, picking up 4/34 to restrict SRH to just 190/9 in 20 overs, a stark contrast to their record-breaking 286-run total against Rajasthan Royals in their previous game.
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LSG Dominate the Chase
With the target set at 191, Nicholas Pooran and Mitchell Marsh led LSG’s batting charge, ensuring a comfortable 5-wicket victory in just 16.1 overs. Shardul’s heroics with the ball earned him the well-deserved Player of the Match award.
Shardul Thakur Criticizes Batter-Friendly Pitches & Impact Player Rule
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Thakur expressed concerns over the increasing batting dominance in T20 cricket, emphasizing how bowlers are struggling due to flat pitches and the Impact Player rule.
🗣️ “I feel bowlers got very little on these kinds of pitches. Pitches should be prepared in such a manner that the game hangs in the balance for both batters and bowlers.”
The Impact Player rule, which allows teams to substitute a player mid-game, has led to higher totals in the IPL, with teams frequently crossing the 250-run mark.
🗣️ “Especially after the impact sub-rule, it’s not fair on bowlers to see scoreboards of 250, 260, and 270 runs every time. That’s my honest opinion.”
From Unsold at IPL Auction to LSG Hero
Thakur also revealed his rollercobaster journey leading up to IPL 2025. After going unsold in the auction, he had already signed with English county side Essex for the season. However, a call from LSG mentor Zaheer Khan changed everything.
🗣️ “While playing Ranji Trophy knockouts, Zaheer Khan called me and said LSG was considering me as a replacement. He advised me to stay prepared, and that reignited my IPL hopes.”
Despite the setback at the auction, Thakur remained confident in his abilities.
🗣️ “It was one bad day at the auction where no one picked me up, but cricket isn’t over. My hopes were high, my talent is there, and my skills are intact. It was about staying in the moment and moving forward.”
Targeting SRH’s Power Hitters
Thakur also detailed his strategy against SRH’s explosive openers, Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma, who have been in red-hot form this season.
🗣️ “We knew that Travis and Abhishek love to take their chances, so I decided to take mine as well. The new ball swings early on, so I went for wickets rather than playing it safe.”
His aggressive approach paid off, helping LSG snap SRH’s momentum and secure a crucial victory.
What’s Next for LSG?
Lucknow Super Giants will now shift their focus to their next clash against Punjab Kings (PBKS) at home in Lucknow on April 1. With Shardul Thakur in top form, LSG will be aiming to build on their winning momentum in the tournament.
