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Shardul Thakur better option than Jasprit Bumrah: Monty Panesar’s opinion is surprising

Monty Panesar has backed Shardul Thakur to break into the India XI for the test series in England, even if he comes in instead of Jasprit Bumrah.

Jasprit Bumrah hasn’t been at the peak of his powers over the last few months. His performances against England at home as well as in the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand have raised questions among fans and experts. Former England spinner Monty Panesar feels the Shardul Thakur could be a better option than Bumrah in the India vs England Tests.

Bumrah failed to get a single wicket in the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand. Against England at home, Bumrah only bagged 4 wickets in 2 Test matches as spinners ran the show. Though questions have been raised on Bumrah’s form, things haven’t come to a point where the talks of him being dropped from the team would be contemplated. Panesar, however, thinks it’s time Bumrah makes way for Shardul.

“I think Jasprit Bumrah needs to pitch it up a little bit and move more in the air. He bowls like that back of a length a little quick and that is going to beat the bat most of the times. I just don’t think his natural length is to hit the top of off-stump. His natural length is to slightly bowl a yard shorter and to bowl it real quick. So I think Shardul Thakur will be a better option. He can bat as well,” Panesar opined while speaking on ‘Behind The Stumps’ Youtube channel.

The former England spinner further stressed the fact that Shardul’s all-round abilities make him a bigger asset for India in English conditions.

“Shardul Thakur will be a good option against the England tail because he pitches the ball up. He does bowl that natural English conditions length. In England it is about hitting the top of off-stump,” Monty Panesar concluded.

Ahead of the match, the talks of Shardul being included in the team have taken place but not in place of a primary seamer. With the conditions in England expected to be more seam-friendly, Shardul has been touted to replace Ravindra Jadeja in the XI.

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