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In a display of sheer determination and skill, Mumbai’s all-rounder Shardul Thakur lit up the BKC Ground in Mumbai with a thunderous celebration after scoring a fighting century in the ongoing Ranji Trophy season. Facing Jammu & Kashmir, Shardul’s performance was nothing short of heroic, rescuing Mumbai from a precarious position and turning the match in their favor.
Mumbai’s batting collapse and Shardul Thakur’s rescue act
Shardul came to the crease with Mumbai in a spot of bother at 91/6, further reduced to 101/7 by the time he started his innings. The 33-year-old, known for his aggressive batting, showcased his mettle by smashing his second First-Class century off just 105 deliveries, including 15 boundaries. This knock was particularly significant as it was his first since his maiden First-Class ton in the previous Ranji Trophy semifinal against Tamil Nadu, where he had similarly bailed out Mumbai from a collapse.
Shardul’s animated celebration after reaching the triple-figure score
The celebration that followed was as explosive as his innings. After reaching his century with a six over long-on in the 60th over of Mumbai’s second innings, Shardul raised his arms in triumph, thumped his chest, and gestured towards the Mumbai dressing room, a moment captured and shared widely across social media platforms. His celebration was a testament to the relief and joy of overcoming adversity under pressure, reflecting the spirit of a cricketer who thrives in challenging scenarios.
Here is the video:
💯 for Shardul Thakur 🙌🙌
A crucial knock under pressure 👏
The celebrations say it all 👌#RanjiTrophy | @IDFCFIRSTBank
Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/oYXDhqotjO pic.twitter.com/o3XQIjzRAH
— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) January 24, 2025
Also WATCH: 40-year-old Paras Dogra takes a one-handed screamer to dismiss Ajinkya Rahane in Ranji Trophy 2024-25
Shardul’s heroics fuel hopes for a national comeback
This performance comes at a time when Shardul has been out of the Indian Test and IPL teams, with his last appearance for India being in December 2023 against South Africa. His absence from the IPL 2025 auction had raised questions about his immediate cricketing future, but performances like these in domestic cricket are likely to keep him in the conversation for a national recall.
Mumbai’s strong position at stumps on Day 2
Mumbai, the defending champions, are now better positioned in the match, thanks to Shardul’s heroics alongside Tanush Kotian‘s resilient half-century. At stumps on Day 2, Mumbai’s score stood at 274/7, leading by 188 runs, with Shardul and Kotian unbeaten on 113 and 58, respectively.
