Disillusioned Thakkar joins Jharkhand

Thakkar played for Himachal Pradesh three seasons ago but returned to Mumbai hoping that the domestic powerhouse will give him another chance. However,despite enjoying a good run,he was continued to be ignored by the selectors,who stuck to their philosophy of focussing on youngsters.

“I was scoring runs but didn’t get another chance to play for Mumbai. For me,it was important to play matches and I know I can do much better in the domestic competition. Subo has seen me in local tournaments in Mumbai and he has faith in me,” Thakkar added,who signed a one-year deal with Jharkhand.

Banerjee explained his side has many stroke players who are capable of playing aggressive cricket but needed someone who could hang around the crease. Subsequently,the Jharkhand Cricket Association shortlisted Thakkar along with Gujarat batsman Bhavik Thakkar.

“I was a fast bowler,so I can look after the bowling department. I needed an experienced hand in the batting line-up. Bhavin is a kind of guy who can play big innings if he stays in the middle for long. He has typical Mumbai player attitude and his experience will useful for us. He will help youngsters in the side and at the same time will take the responsibility of playing big innings. I hope he comes out good for us,” Banerjee said.

Jharkhand are likely to miss the services of their ace batsman Saurabh Tiwary,who recently got his shoulder operated and is out for 12 weeks. Thakkar said he is not expecting too much and hoped he could replicate his Mumbai form for Jharkhand. “I don’t want to waste this opportunity. Jharkhand is in the Elite group and we have decent teams to compete against. I’m keeping my fingers cross and hoping for the best,” Thakkar said.