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In a candid revelation that adds a layer of intrigue to the world of cricket, Indian all-rounder Shardul Thakur has disclosed what he considers to be the most formidable challenge in Test cricket. As Team India brace themselves for the upcoming Boxing Day Test, Thakur’s insights bring attention to a crucial factor that could shape the outcome of the game.
Shardul Thakur names the most difficult country for Test cricket
Thakur, a pivotal figure in Rohit Sharma’s Indian cricket squad, didn’t mince words when he spoke about the formidable challenges of playing Test cricket in South Africa. Acknowledging the unpredictable pitch conditions, Thakur emphasized the need for adaptability, suggesting that it’s impossible to predict the nature of the playing surface across the country.
“I think South Africa is one of the most difficult countries to play Test cricket in. Considering the pitch conditions, even if we play all over the country, this is one country where you can’t expect what you will get from the pitch, so it’s very important to go out there play the game and on the game day, you judge the conditions of the pitch, of the ground, and how it is and put yourself in a position to give your best according to that,” said Thakur in a conversation with Ravichandran Ashwin.
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Unseen altitude hurdles
Beyond the pitch conditions, Thakur shed light on another critical aspect — the high altitude of South Africa. Expressing the need for players to acclimatize to the unique conditions, he stressed the significance of managing breathlessness during physical exertion, be it while bowling or running between the wickets.
“Right now, I am just getting acclimatised to the weather, and I also learnt that this is a little high in the altitude. So, on the day when you shouldn’t be short of breath, when you’re doing some running around or bowling, it’s very important to get the feel. When you’re short of breath, still manage that and bowl out there or if you’re batting, running between the wickets, how you can still continue your innings, so that is about one of the most challenging conditions in South Africa,” he added.
