Shardul Thakur Set to Boost Lucknow Super Giants Amidst Injury Woes in IPL 2025

Mar, 25 2025

In what could be a game-changer for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Shardul Thakur might just be the piece they need to navigate through the challenging waters of IPL 2025. Having gone unsold in the mega auction, the buzz is that he’s stepping in as an injury replacement for the team struggling with fitness issues among their main pacers. Spotted practicing with the LSG squad in Visakhapatnam while donning their jersey, Thakur is reportedly close to sealing the deal with the team.

LSG, currently grappling with injuries to key bowlers like Mayank Yadav and Avesh Khan, is desperately in need of a skilled pace-bowling all-rounder. Mohsin Khan adds to their woes, still on the mend from an ACL tear he suffered during the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Thakur’s recent performances in the domestic circuit make him a prime candidate for the role. In the 2024-25 domestic season, he racked up an impressive 35 wickets and 505 runs for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy, not to mention his 15 wickets in nine matches during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Standout moments like a hat-trick against Meghalaya and a quick-fire 73* off 28 balls in the Vijay Hazare Trophy are testaments to his all-round capabilities.

Why Thakur is a Perfect Fit for LSG

For LSG, adopting Thakur isn’t just about filling in the shoes of their injured players. It’s about bringing in someone with the experience and proven capability to handle pressure situations. With a background spanning five IPL franchises, including stints with CSK, Delhi Capitals, KKR, Rising Pune Supergiants, and potentially LSG, he brings a wealth of experience to the table. Signing him from the Registered Available Player Pool (RAPP) at a base price of ₹2 crore highlights LSG's strategic focus on strengthening their squad with seasoned players.

Interestingly, Thakur had outlined his preference to be part of the IPL over other commitments, such as a county cricket stint with Essex. Communicating his desire to focus on IPL, he ensures his alignment with LSG’s objectives. The management views him as the right match to bolster the team's bowling attack, especially with only Akash Deep and Prince Yadav remaining as the other fit bowling options.