Vidarbha achieved their third title victory during 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season after a win against Kerala in the finals. The Indian cricket team could benefit from selecting these outstanding players who excelled during the season for their England tour. The analysis focuses on three top-notch performers Shardul Thakur alongside Auqib Nabi Dar and Karun Nair who deserve selection to the India men’s team.
Through the Ranji Trophy India develops its cricketing talent for red-ball competencies. The 2024-25 edition maintained the standard of previous years by having players perform under high pressure scenarios to secure crucial matches. With India’s next Test series in England scheduled for the summer, the conditions demand players who can adapt to swinging pitches and challenging opposition. Let’s delve into the profiles of three stars who could bolster India’s squad.
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3. Shardul Thakur (Mumbai)
The cricket world has once again acknowledged Shardul Thakur as “Lord Shardul” during his exceptional performances in Ranji Trophy matches. Thakur returned to cricket action after missing the post-2023 ODI World Cup period by showing competence with his batting and bowling abilities.
Key Performances
1. His most valuable contribution was his tight defensive performance resulting in a determined 66 run innings against Vidarbha during the semi-finals.
2. He achieved important goal totals in each crucial situation because of his skill to swing the ball efficiently during beneficial conditions for fast bowlers.
Why He Fits
Thakur demonstrates valuable value in English conditions because he provides batting strength to the tail and bowling variations that generate swing. The international experience of his career enhances his overall value.
2. Auqib Nabi Dar (Jammu and Kashmir)
Auqib Nabi Dar proved himself as one of the best pacers of the current season. His representation of Jammu and Kashmir allowed him to display his bowling skill for creating speed and movement from ordinary playing surfaces.
Key Performances
1. Finished among the top wicket-takers of the season.
2. J&K achieved better results because of his crucial spell bowling during decisive moments of matches.
Why He Fits
Dar positions himself well for English pitches because of his skill to deliver sustained accurate bowling. The team would gain momentum through his multicultural pitching talent.
1. Karun Nair (Vidarbha)
The dream batting season from Karun Nair offered him a return to his outstanding form. As Vidarbha claimed their title the seasoned batter proved fundamental through his position as a leading run-scoring player in the competition.
Key Performances
1. Scored 863 runs in 9 matches at an average of over 70.
2. Played a pivotal role in both innings of the final: 86 in the first innings and an unbeaten century in the second.
Why He Fits
Nair is no stranger to Test cricket, having scored a triple century against England in 2016. With India struggling to find stability in their middle order, Nair’s experience and form could be invaluable.
| Player | Role | Key Stats (2024-25) | Why They Fit for England |
| Shardul Thakur | All-rounder | Gritty knocks & consistent wickets | Swing bowling & batting depth |
| Auqib Nabi Dar | Fast Bowler | Top wicket-taker for J&K | Pace & accuracy |
| Karun Nair | Middle-order Bat | 863 runs at avg 70+ | Experience & current form |
Conclusion
Indian cricketers must use their adaptability skills together with their expertise and resilience when facing England in their Test series. The selection committee should choose Shardul Thakur based on his batting and bowling skills together with Auqib Nabi Dar due to his high bowling speed and Karun Nair because of his powerful batting performance. These players demonstrate their worth during key situations and earn the opportunity to provide vital support for Indian victory in overseas cricket competitions.
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