After a tough 2024, which saw him fall out of favor with the Indian test team, Shardul Thakur had marked his Ranji Trophy return with a hat-trick against Meghalaya and a century against Jammu and Kashmir. Earlier, Shardul had gone unsold at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction as well.

India international set for first taste of county cricket after agreeing deal for first red-ball block | ESPN.com

India all-rounder Shardul Thakur will play seven matches for County team Essex in Division One from the beginning of the 2025 season, the club announced on Tuesday.

Indian all-rounder Shardul Thakur is set to make his mark in County Cricket after being signed by Essex for seven matches. This exciting opportunity will allow Thakur to showcase his skills in a new and challenging environment.

Indian cricketer Shardul Thakur will play seven matches for Essex in 2025, marking his debut in the English country cricket scene. Thakur, who has consistently performed well, is eager to showcase his talent at Essex.

"I am feeling excited to join Essex this summer. Personally, it brings new challenges and opportunities to showcase my talent and skills. County cricket is something I always wanted to experience and I am glad that I'll be representing the Eagles,” said Thakur.

Shardul Thakur is all set to represent Essex for a brief stint in the upcoming season of the County Championship. The 33-year-old has been signed up for a seven-match deal in initial half of the 2025-26 season. This will be Thakur's first taste of County cricket and the bowling all-rounder is understandably elated about the challenge.

India all-rounder Shardul Thakur signs for Essex for seven matches in the upcoming County Championship. However, the 33-year-old will be available in case any team selects him as a possible injury replacement during the IPL.

Discover how Shardul Thakur, unsold in the IPL auction, pivots his career by joining Essex County Cricket Club.

India seamer Shardul Thakur signs to play in Essex's first seven games of the 2025 County Championship season.

Shardul Thakur has agreed to a seven-match County Championship deal with Essex from the beginning of the 2025 season.