After a forgetful show in the series opener between India and hosts South Africa, pacer Shardul Thakur raised his stocks with his all-round show in the 2nd Test match at the Wanderers Stadium. From Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar to Test specialist VVS Laxman, Shardul was lauded for his record-breaking spell against the Proteas in the penultimate clash of the three-match series at Johannesburg.  

Praising Shardul for fulfilling the all-rounder’s role, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has made a noteworthy comment about the rapid rise of the Mumbaikar in Test cricket. Hardik Pandya’s departure from the Indian squad and Ravindra Jadeja’s injury had created a void for the visitors in their Test tour of South Africa. Speaking ahead of the start of Day 4, Chopra explained how Shardul has replaced Pandya with his all-round show in the South Africa Test series. 

Speaking on his YouTube channel, the former Indian opener and full-time cricket pundit spoke at length about Shardul making a strong case for himself in front of the selectors. “Shardul Thakur is doing what we were expecting from Hardik Pandya, honestly speaking, for a lack of a better example. We were repeatedly looking towards Hardik, that he will bowl and score runs with the bat,” Chopra explained.  

Shardul entered his name in the history books after taking a record seven-wicket haul against South Africa at Johannesburg. The pacer then chipped in with an entertaining knock of 28 off 24 balls to lift India to 266 in their second essay at The Wanderers Stadium. Pacer Shardul also got the better of opener Aiden Markram during South Africa’s chase of 240 in the 2nd Test at Johannesburg. 

“Of course, there is no comparison between Shardul and Hardik’s batting. Hardik is way above Shardul in terms of batting but there is commitment, he is scoring runs. Shardul’s bowling is much better than Hardik’s. Important runs, important wickets and totally entertaining. I love Shardul Thakur to bits,” Chopra added.