After LSG’s impressive win over SRH, Shardul Thakur shared that it was actually head coach Zaheer Khan who convinced him to join the Lucknow Super Giants. He was on the verge of heading to England to play County cricket after not being picked in the IPL 2025 Auction. Thakur’s outstanding performance, where he took four wickets for just 34 runs, played a big part in helping Lucknow secure a 5-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad. Thanks to this performance, he also climbed to the top of the Purple Cap standings.
Initially, Thakur wasn’t expecting to be in the IPL this season. He had prepared to play in county cricket instead. After the auction didn’t go his way, he thought that was it for his IPL chances. He mentioned how Zaheer Khan reached out to him while he was playing in the Ranji Trophy. Zaheer told him there was a possibility he might be called up as a replacement for someone else on the team. Don’t lose hope,” he advised Thakur, encouraging him to stay ready just in case.
When asked what was going through his mind after the auction, Thakur responded candidly. Honestly, I didn’t think I would be playing in the IPL now. I had a backup plan in mind.” He shared how that conversation with Zaheer kept his spirits up. Just the thought that he might still have a shot at playing again was enough to motivate him. He said it was all about believing in his own abilities even when the situation seemed dim.
Thakur also made it clear that personal records like the Purple Cap aren’t what drives him. He’s all about the team winning. For me, winning is what really counts. I don’t get caught up in the numbers or stats, he stated. He’s focused on making a difference in the game and delivering performances that help the team succeed.
The LSG team, led by Rishabh Pant, finally got their first win of the IPL 2025 season thanks to Thakur’s fantastic play. Now, they’re looking to keep this positive momentum rolling as they move forward in the tournament. It’s a thrilling time for the players and fans alike, and they’re ready to see how they can build on this victory.
