Shardul Thakur finished as Chennai Super Kings' highest wicket-taker in IPL 2021. Meanwhile, as he celebrates his 30th birthday, we present some of his unknown facts.
Indian pacer Shardul Thakur has cemented his place in Team India as one of the impactful bowlers. Also, his latest stint in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 has been commendable, claiming 21 wickets in 16 matches at an economy of 8.80 and finishing as CSK's highest wicket-taker.
Besides his lethal bowling, he is also known for his excellent striking abilities and can be a hit with the bat, too, despite not being an all-rounder. Meanwhile, as he celebrates his 30th birthday, we look at five of his unknown facts.
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Long commute
Born in the Palghar district of Maharashtra, he travelled daily to Borivali to make a living and practice cricket. While he began his journey before sunset, he used to reach home late at night.
Six sixes
We already mentioned that he is a powerful hitter as well. While playing in the Harris Shield Plate Division during his school days, he struck six sixes in an over, thus becoming the first batter to do so.
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Business-class to First Class
During the 2017-18 tour of South Africa, he made his Twenty20 International (T20I) debut. Upon his arrival, he travelled home via a local train from Mumbai in the First Class compartment.
Travelled 700km for Vijay Hazare Trophy
Yes, you read that right. During the recent COVID times, while participating in the VHT for Mumbai, he travelled from Ahmedabad to Jaipur via road. He did so to avoid the mandatory three-day quarantine. Crazy!
Number 10 jersey
When he debuted for Mumbai, he donned the number ten jersey, which legendary Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar once wore. Consequently, it sparked controversy while he faced the backlash of the fans. Later, he got it changed to 54. He chose number ten initially since it was his birth month.