Mumbai and Chennai Super Kings all-rounder Shardul Thakur brought a special celebration after c ompleting a crucial century in the Ranji Trophy 2024 semi-final against Tamil Nadu. Playing at the Sharad Pawar Cricket Academy BKC ground in Mumbai, the hosts were in serious trouble at 106-7 in 47.4 when Thakur came into bat.
From this position, Shardul Thakur stitched up crucial partnerships with Hardik Thomre and Tanush Kotian to help Mumbai take a first-innings lead and then eye a massive total. Through this batting effort, Thakur smashed the Tamil Nadu bowlers around the park and reached the three-figure mark in 90 balls.
Completing his century, Shardul Thakur hit Ajith Ram for a massive six before performing a special celebration to commemorate this moment. Thakur's fireworks continued before the CSK star was caught out at the score of 109 in 105 balls with 13 fours and sixes.
Don't think he needs any encouragement or advice: Rahane on Shreyas Iyer
But unlike Thakur, his Mumbai teammate, Shreyas Iyer had a forgettable outing with the bat as he only managed to score three runs. Ahead of this fixture, Iyer was excluded from the BCCI central contracts for not playing first-class cricket while he wasn't part of the Indian team.
Speaking about Iyer, Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane said, “He's an experienced player. His contribution has been amazing whenever he turned up for Mumbai. We are thrilled to have him in our team for the semifinal. I don't think he needs any encouragement or advice. He has always contributed with the bat for Mumbai, and him being around other players in the dressing room will also help the team’s cause.”