India, March 28 -- When you have broken through the ranks to the Indian cricket team at 26 and have to drop out of an ODI event and your debut Test match; both due to a groin strain, you gain the wrong kind of reputation. Especially as a fast bowler, where fitness is non-negotiable.

Ever the consummate trier, Shardul Thakur found a way back to international cricket with his heroics in the epic 2021 Brisbane Test match. For Indian cricket, it marked the discovery of a new pace bowling all-rounder for overseas conditions.

It's difficult to predict if early success in the IPL can lead to bigger things for the 33-year-old but it's been another display of his spirit. He was unsold in the player auction, roped in as late replacement by Luckno...