After a brave knock at The Oval, Shardul Thakur equalizes with Don Bradman in the WTC Final
In the ICC World Test Championship championship match against Australia, Shardul Thakur scored a valiant half-century that significantly aided India in avoiding the third-day follow-on. Before getting pulled behind in the second session of play on Friday, Thakur struck a valiant 51 off 109 with the aid of six fours.
Thakur thus maintained his romantic relationship with The Oval, where he has already struck three consecutive half-centuries. Only two hitters from visiting teams—the legendary Sir Don Bradman and Allan Border—have previously been able to score fifty or more runs at the stadium, illustrating the milestone’s importance.
Thakur made his debut at The Oval in September 2021 against England, scoring a half-century in each of the innings. The all-rounder hit 60 in the first innings and added 57 in the second, helping India win the match by 157 runs.
Thakur had endured a barrage of quick bowling from Australian pacers, taking hits to his hands on many occasions and necessitating repeated interventions from the team physio.
Thakur was hit twice on his right forearm on two consecutive Pat Cummins pitches, causing him to experience severe discomfort.
Thakur, though, unleashed a few stunning shots once the storm had gone, including a ferocious cut off Mitchell Starc over point. The best shot of the day, however, belonged to Thakur against his tormentor Cummins, who was defeated by his graceful straight drive for a four, which would have had any expert batter beam with pride.
After being reduced to 71/4 and bowled out for 296 runs a little into the second session, India managed to rally a little. Thus, Australia gained a significant 173-run advantage with more than two days of WTC final play remaining.
