Shardul Thakur exudes confidence after stellar Ranji performance, eyes England tour spot

Thakur played a crucial role in Mumbai's victory, taking 6 wickets for 58 runs in the first innings to help the team steal a slender 14-run lead. He then continued his impressive performance by adding three more wickets in the second innings. Alongside him, left-arm pacer Royston Dias also shone with his maiden five-wicket haul, as Mumbai bowled out Haryana for just 201 runs in their second innings.

Following the performance, Thakur told reporters that his eye remains on an Indian return as he awaits his confirmation in the squad for the England tour in June.

"When there's no place in the team, there's naturally disappointment. And, when you're not playing, sitting idle at home, you tend to think about it more," he said. "But once I step onto the field, my entire focus is on the match -- whether it's club cricket, Ranji Trophy, IPL, or playing for India. To me, every cricket match is the same, regardless of the level. I always aim to give my best in whichever game I play, I don't have any other thoughts.

"Yes, absolutely. I believe I'm in contention [for the England tour]. The next step is to make my place in the team and earn selection. That's always the goal

"Right now, I'm playing at the Ranji Trophy level. International cricket is the highest level we all strive for. It's always on my mind, it's the motivation to play for the country that drives me forward. That passion, that fire, never fades."

Thakur has had a Ranji Trophy season to remember, picking 30 wickets at 21.10, while also scoring 396 runs at 44, laced with three fifties and a ton.

Will Shardul Thakur next feature in County Cricket?

While the Mumbai star kept the option open, he admitted that the plan would largely depend on his selection on the Indian team for the England Test series.

Thakur said, "If I get an offer, I'll definitely play. It would be a great new experience. Right now, there are no concrete plans, but county cricket has 6-7 matches around that time. If selected, it will help me adjust to English conditions before the (England) tour.”

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