Fri Jan 24 14:11:14 IST 2025: ## Ranji Hero Shardul Thakur Challenges Selectors After Stellar Performance
**Mumbai, India** – Veteran Indian bowler Shardul Thakur delivered a defiant performance in the Ranji Trophy, scoring a crucial 51 and taking two wickets against Jammu & Kashmir, prompting him to publicly question his continued exclusion from the national team.
Thakur, who has fallen out of favor with Indian selectors and was overlooked in the IPL 2025 mega auction, was instrumental in Mumbai’s first innings total of 120 runs. His quickfire half-century came after top-order batsmen Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma, and Shreyas Iyer failed to deliver. His bowling figures of 2/39 off 15.3 overs, at an economy rate of 2.52, further highlighted his all-round ability.
Following his match-winning contribution, Thakur directly addressed his omission from recent Indian squads. He emphasized his fitness and questioned the selectors’ decision, stating, “What can I talk about my quality? Others should talk about it. They should see that if someone has quality, he should be given more chances.” He highlighted his ability to perform under pressure, stating that while everyone excels in easy situations, his strength lies in overcoming adversity.
Thakur also acknowledged his exclusion from the IPL 2025 auction but expressed his determination to focus on the present and continue performing. His impressive Ranji Trophy display has undoubtedly reignited the debate surrounding his place in the Indian team.
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