Shardul Thakur – India’s Clutch Performer & Fan-Favorite “Lord Shardul”
Shardul Thakur, affectionately known as “Lord Shardul” by fans, is one of Indian cricket’s most valuable all-rounders in the modern era. Whether it’s breaking stubborn partnerships with the ball or delivering quick-fire runs under pressure, Shardul is a true match-winner. His high-energy performances, fearless attitude, and never-say-die spirit have made him a fan favorite and a dependable asset in India’s lineup across all formats.
Early Life and Domestic Rise
Born on October 16, 1991, in Palghar, Maharashtra, Shardul’s journey to the top was far from conventional. Labeled too short for a fast bowler early in his career, he silenced critics with sheer hard work, accuracy, and natural swing. He made headlines playing for Mumbai in domestic cricket, particularly in the Ranji Trophy, where his ability to strike with the red ball stood out.
Player Profile – Shardul Thakur
| Attribute |
Details |
| Full Name |
Shardul Narendra Thakur |
| Date of Birth |
October 16, 1991 |
| Birthplace |
Palghar, Maharashtra, India |
| Playing Role |
Bowling All-Rounder |
| Bowling Style |
Right-arm medium-fast |
| Batting Style |
Right-handed batter |
| India Debut |
ODI – 2017 vs Sri Lanka |
|
Test – 2018 vs West Indies |
| Domestic Team |
Mumbai |
| IPL Teams |
CSK, KKR, Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings |
| Nickname |
“Lord Shardul” (after clutch heroics) |
Breakthrough in International Cricket
The world took serious notice of Shardul during India’s historic 2020–21 Test series win in Australia. Thrust into action at the Gabba due to injuries in the squad, he rose to the occasion with a game-changing 67-run knock and 7 wickets across the match. That victory at Brisbane wasn’t just a turning point for India — it marked the arrival of Shardul Thakur on the big stage.
Memorable Performances
| Format |
Opponent |
Venue |
Performance |
| Test |
Australia |
Brisbane (2021) |
67 runs & 7 wickets – match-defining heroics |
| ODI |
England |
Pune (2021) |
4/67 – broke England’s batting momentum |
| Test |
England |
The Oval (2021) |
57 & 60 in both innings + 3 wickets |
| IPL |
Punjab Kings |
IPL 2021 |
3/28 – game-changer for CSK |
| ODI |
South Africa |
Lucknow (2022) |
2/35 and 33* – balanced all-round performance |
Career Statistics (As of 2025)
| Format |
Matches |
Wickets |
Best Bowling |
Runs |
Bat Avg |
| Tests |
12+ |
30+ |
7/61 |
400+ |
20+ |
| ODIs |
50+ |
70+ |
4/36 |
450+ |
18+ |
| T20Is |
25+ |
35+ |
3/19 |
100+ |
— |
| IPL |
80+ |
90+ |
3/19 |
300+ |
16+ |
What Makes Shardul Thakur a Game-Changer?
-
Wicket-Taking Mindset: Always hunts wickets, especially in middle overs when breakthroughs are vital.
-
Reliable Lower-Order Batter: Capable of shifting momentum with fearless hitting.
-
Versatility with the Ball: Can bowl across all phases — powerplay, middle overs, and at the death.
-
High-Impact Performer: Known for stepping up in pressure situations in Tests, ODIs, and IPL.
-
Cricketing IQ: Makes smart decisions under pressure — whether with bat or ball.
Lord Shardul in the IPL
Shardul’s IPL journey has been nothing short of stellar. His best years came with Chennai Super Kings, where he became MS Dhoni’s go-to man in crunch situations. Later stints with KKR, Delhi Capitals, and Punjab Kings further showcased his ability to adapt and deliver under different leaderships.
Whether defending totals or rescuing the team with the bat, Shardul’s all-round contributions have consistently made headlines.
The Road Ahead
With India’s ever-competitive pace battery, Shardul stands out for his dual skill set. His presence as a bowling all-rounder brings balance to the playing XI — a factor selectors deeply value in ICC tournaments. Known for stepping up when it matters most, Shardul is poised to remain a critical part of India’s plans in red-ball and white-ball formats alike.
Final Word
From Ranji stalwart to Gabba hero to IPL match-winner, Shardul Thakur’s journey is one of hard work, grit, and big-match temperament. He may not have express pace, but what he has is far more rare — the knack of changing games when no one expects it.
Keep watching this space on TheLiveCricketScore for real-time updates, stats, and highlights of the man who thrives in the chaos of pressure — Lord Shardul.
