Shardul Thakur Signs with Essex for County Championship 2025-26
Indian all-rounder Shardul Thakur, who went unsold in the IPL 2025 auction, has signed with Essex for the County Championship's opening phase. He will play seven matches in the 2025-26 season. Thakur has been in excellent form, scoring 402 runs and taking 34 wickets in the Ranji Trophy 2024-25. Essex’s cricket director, Chris Silverwood, praised Thakur’s all-round abilities. Despite this county stint, Thakur remains available as an IPL injury replacement. Essex’s campaign begins against defending champions Surrey.
For the 2025-26 season, Indian all-rounder Shardul Thakur has signed with Essex to play in the County Championship after going unsold in the IPL 2025 mega auction. The club announced the deal on February 18, confirming that Thakur will feature in seven matches. Thakur has been in top form for Mumbai in the ongoing Ranji Trophy, scoring 402 runs at an average of 40 and taking 34 wickets at an average of 21.67. His standout performance included a century (119) against Jammu and Kashmir.
Expressing his excitement, Thakur said he always wanted to experience County Cricket. Essex’s Director of Cricket, Chris Silverwood, praised Thakur’s ability as a fast bowler who can contribute with the bat, making him a valuable addition to the squad. Despite missing out on the IPL, Thakur remains eligible as an injury replacement.
Meanwhile, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 begins on February 19, with hosts Pakistan facing New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi. The match will be broadcast live in India on Star Sports and Sports18, with live streaming available on the JioStar app. New Zealand, having recently defeated Pakistan in an ODI tri-series, enters as favorites, while Pakistan aims for a strong start to their title defense.
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