Shardul Thakur Joins Essex for 2025 Season Debut

Indian all-rounder Shardul Thakur has signed with Essex to play in the first seven matches of the 2025 County Championship season in England, marking his debut in the tournament. This opportunity comes after Thakur went unsold in the IPL auction, despite his stellar form in domestic cricket, particularly in the Ranji Trophy with Mumbai, where he amassed 439 runs and took 34 wickets. Thakur has impressed with both bat and ball, and his signing is seen as strategic by Essex, who sought a high-quality bowler with batting skills for the lower order. Essex's Director of Cricket, Chris Silverwood, expressed excitement about Thakur's addition, considering it a key acquisition for the club. Thakur views this stint as a chance to enhance his skills and potentially strengthen his case for inclusion in India's squad for their upcoming tour of England.