Non-selection in the Indian squad for the coming T20 World Cup has been a “big setback” for Shardul Thakur. But the seamer all-rounder has come to terms with it, being well aware of how to deal with such a disappointment.
“Of course, it’s a big setback. Every player dreams to play the World Cup, not just play but win it as well,” Thakur said on the eve of the Shikhar Dhawan-led Indian team’s second ODI against South Africa in Ranchi.
“It’s okay I’m not selected this time. But there’s still a lot of cricket left and there’s also the ODI World Cup next year. My focus will be to do well in whatever matches I play and make vital contributions,” the Mumbai cricketer, who’s just two short of completing 100 international wickets across formats, emphasised.
Ahead of their T20 World Cup campaign, India suffered yet another blow as pacer Deepak Chahar, who was among the reserves, was ruled out with back stiffness. If Thakur fares well in Sunday’s ODI and the final one on Tuesday, his prospects of being among the reserves may brighten.
“Injuries are part and parcel of the game. At some point, someone or the other is going to get injured. We should not read too much into these. Besides, there’s a lot more cricket to come,” the 30-year-old said.
“If injuries happen, then anyone can come in at any point in time. At present, your responsibility is to be ready whenever and wherever you’re asked to play. As far as I’m concerned, I will be mentally ready if I get a callup. That’s all in my hands,” Thakur added.
He understands well that alongside taking wickets, making important contributions with the bat at the lower order on a consistent basis could provide his team with a big advantage. “If you see teams who have done very well at the international level, their batting line-up has been quite deep.
“Australia, for instance, have the likes of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc coming at No.8 or 9. Even England for that matter. I’ve also been focusing on my batting for quite some time now.
“Obviously, it’s always great and an advantage to the team if the player batting at No.7 or at No.9 contributes consistently. That gives the team a cushion.
“We can have our batting line-up deep that way and the difference of 15-20 runs can be crucial in winning a game, especially in white-ball cricket,” Thakur explained.
