By Swapneel Deshpande a day ago
In a strategic move to strengthen their depleted pace attack, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have signed Indian all-rounder Shardul Thakur for IPL 2025. Thakur, who remained unsold in the previous IPL mega auction, has been brought in at a base price of ₹2 crores following multiple injuries in the LSG fast bowling department.
LSG have confirmed that Thakur will replace left-arm pacer Mohsin Khan, who has sustained a calf injury. The National Cricket Academy’s Centre of Excellence (COE) has informed the franchise that Shaikh is currently 50 percent fit, with a possibility of returning to action later in the season.
The contract with Thakur was finalized after a delay, primarily due to the fitness clearance required from the COE. The clearance came through on Saturday afternoon, allowing the franchise to officially include Thakur in their squad.
Lucknow Super Giants’ pace unit has been severely impacted ahead of the new season. Apart from Mohsin Khan, key pacers Mayank Yadav, Avesh Khan, and Akash Deep are also recovering from injuries.
Mayank Yadav, who has impressed as India’s fastest bowler, is expected to regain fitness by mid-April.
Avesh Khan, suffering from a knee injury, has not yet received medical clearance and is likely to miss the first three matches. Akash Deep is also unavailable for the initial fixtures due to fitness concerns.
LSG’s management remains hopeful but cautious as they await full recovery updates on all their frontline bowlers.
Shardul Thakur has already joined the LSG training camp and has been practicing with the team over the past week. Interestingly, his presence was briefly highlighted in a social media post by the franchise, which was later deleted, fueling speculation about his inclusion.
Thakur is set to travel with the team for their season opener against Delhi Capitals in Vizag. It is expected that he will share the new ball responsibilities with Caribbean speedster Shamar Joseph, adding depth and experience to LSG’s bowling attack.
Speaking at a press conference, LSG’s mentor Zaheer Khan addressed the team’s injury challenges. He emphasized the dynamic nature of IPL seasons and the need to prepare for unforeseen circumstances.
“We can’t really say much as our players are currently with the NCA. We are working alongside them to see how things move forward. The situation is dynamic and when you’re talking about the IPL, you have to be ready for uncertainties to occur. We plan for the season accordingly with 24 players; we have to field the playing XI that upholds the brand of cricket we want and wins. This is a positive unit, and you will get to see a positive approach,” Zaheer stated.
Despite the injury setbacks, LSG is determined to begin IPL 2025 on a strong note. The addition of an experienced campaigner like Shardul Thakur offers a crucial boost, both in the bowling department and as a handy lower-order batsman.
Fans will be keenly watching how Thakur’s return to the IPL impacts LSG’s campaign as they look to overcome early challenges and establish themselves as title contenders.
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