India’s fast-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur made a blunt remark about his underuse with the ball on Day 2 of the Manchester Test, suggesting that the call was entirely up to captain Shubman Gill.
Shardul Shrugs Off Blame, Says Captain’s Call
After returning to the playing XI in place of injured Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shardul impressed with the bat by scoring a valuable 41 runs. But with the ball, he was barely given a chance—bowling just five overs out of the 46 India delivered on Day 2, the fewest among all pacers. He conceded 35 runs at an economy of seven and failed to pick up a wicket.
When quizzed about his limited bowling role, Shardul didn’t mince words.
“Giving bowling is the captain’s call. Not in my hands. The captain decides when to give them,” he said post-match, placing full responsibility on Shubman Gill.
The 33-year-old added that he was ready to bowl more if asked, but the decision wasn’t his to make.
“I could have bowled two overs more today but that is the captain’s call. It is difficult to find rhythm but I try and use my experience,” he stated.
England Dominate as India Struggles
England made the most of India’s bowling woes. Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett launched a blistering 166-run opening stand, scoring at nearly five runs per over and putting immense pressure on the Indian pacers. Though both openers missed out on centuries—Crawley falling for 84 and Duckett for 94—England ended Day 2 firmly in control at 225/2, with Ollie Pope and Joe Root unbeaten.
Other Indian bowlers, including Mohammed Siraj and debutant Anshul Kamboj, also failed to stem the flow of runs. Siraj gave away 26 runs in 4 overs, while Kamboj leaked 29 in 5.
Pant’s Grit Stands Out
Amid India’s struggles, Rishabh Pant emerged as the lone warrior. Battling through a fractured foot, the wicketkeeper-batter walked out on Day 2 after retiring hurt on Day 1. He struck a valiant 54 off 75 balls, with three boundaries and two sixes, before being bowled by Jofra Archer. His return injected some much-needed energy into the Indian innings, but it wasn’t enough to prevent England from seizing the momentum.
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