Shardul Thakur joined an unwanted record in IPL history as he bowled the joint-longest over ever in the tournament. The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) pacer delivered an 11-ball over against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Tuesday, equalling the record set by Mohammed Siraj and Tushar Deshpande.
Thakur, who went unsold at the IPL 2025 mega auction but was later signed by LSG as an injury replacement for Mohsin Khan, had been impressive in the first few games of the season. However, things spiraled during the 12th over of KKR’s innings, where he bowled five wides in a row, losing rhythm and control.
His over read:
Wd, Wd, Wd, Wd, Wd, 1, 1, 0, 4, 2, W
Despite the erratic start, Thakur redeemed himself by dismissing KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane on the final delivery of the over, a full toss caught by Nicholas Pooran. His final bowling figures were 4-0-52-2, including eight wides.
Longest Overs in IPL History (by balls bowled):
- 11 – Shardul Thakur (LSG vs KKR, 2025)
- 11 – Tushar Deshpande (CSK vs LSG, 2023)
- 11 – Mohammed Siraj (RCB vs MI, 2023)
Thakur’s chaotic over reminded fans of the pressure bowlers face in high-stakes IPL games. Though he grabbed a couple of wickets, the high economy and loss of rhythm might force LSG to rethink strategies going forward.
Lucknow Super Giants will hope for a more consistent performance from the experienced all-rounder in the upcoming matches.
