Home / Sports / Shardul Thakur's Absence Raises Eyebrows as India Falters in Oval Test
Shardul Thakur's Absence Raises Eyebrows as India Falters in Oval Test
1 Aug
Summary
- Dinesh Karthik feels Shardul Thakur could have been useful on green Oval pitch
- India opted for extra batting option Karun Nair over Thakur in playing XI
- Washington Sundar's batting position shuffled despite his century in previous Test
As India prepares for the crucial fifth Test against England at The Oval, former wicket-keeper Dinesh Karthik has raised concerns over the team's decision to exclude all-rounder Shardul Thakur from the playing XI. Karthik believes Thakur could have been a valuable asset on the green, overcast conditions at The Oval, providing a much-needed fourth seam option to support the frontline attack.
Instead, the Indian team management opted to include an extra batting option in Karun Nair, while trusting their three-man seam attack and two spin-bowling all-rounders. Thakur had impressed with a handy 41 in the first innings of the previous Test at Old Trafford, but failed to make an impact with the ball.
The article also discusses the team's batting order reshuffle, with Washington Sundar's position being shuffled despite his brilliant century at No. 5 in the last match. Karthik believes Sundar's versatility as an all-rounder will be crucial for India going forward.
Furthermore, the decision to rest spearhead Jasprit Bumrah for the final Test has also sparked debate. Bumrah struggled with an ankle niggle in the previous match, and Karthik suggests the team should have consulted the player before making the call, respecting his input on his own fitness.
As India aims to clinch the series at The Oval, the team's selection decisions and the absence of key players like Thakur and Bumrah will be closely scrutinized, with Karthik's insights providing a thought-provoking perspective on the team's strategy.
