As Lucknow Super Giants prepared to host Punjab Kings in their home clash, Shardul Thakur didn’t hold back in expressing his discontent with the current state of pitches dominating the IPL arena. The seasoned all-rounder took center stage, voicing his concerns over the blatant imbalance favoring batters and the ripple effects of the Impact Player rule on bowlers’ roles.
Shardul’s Call for Fair Play: Bowlers’ Cry for Justice
Shardul Thakur, known for his gritty performances, spoke passionately about the skewed dynamics of the game. “This isn’t just my personal view—it’s the collective sentiment of every bowler out there,” he emphasized. “Many of them don’t get the platform to speak up, but the reality is undeniable. The Impact Player rule has tilted the scales heavily in favor of batters, and the bowler’s craft is being overshadowed.”
He added, “We’re not asking for much—just fair pitches that ensure a balanced contest between bat and ball. Right now, it’s all about batters stepping in and dominating from the get-go. Bowlers deserve an equal shot at making an impact. Cricket should be a battle, not a one-sided spectacle.”
Zaheer Khan’s Lifeline: A Turning Point for Shardul
Reflecting on his IPL journey, Shardul credited Lucknow Super Giants’ mentor Zaheer Khan for his resurgence this season. “Every player waits for that one call,” he shared. “After going unsold, I focused on the Ranji Trophy with Mumbai, and we made it to the knockouts. Then, a month before the IPL, Zaheer reached out. He spoke about the team’s injuries and how they were eyeing me as a potential replacement. That conversation reignited my focus, and I started mentally preparing for the IPL.”
Mindset Over Mechanics: Shardul’s Winning Formula
Shardul’s performance this season has been nothing short of impressive, with six wickets in just two matches. When asked about the secret to his success, he revealed, “There’s no change in my action or technique. It’s purely about mindset. I’m playing with freedom now. If batters come hard at me, I’m ready to give it back. That’s the approach I’ve embraced.”
For more exclusive updates and insights on the IPL and cricket, stay tuned to Indiabet.
