Indian fast-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur is keen to make a solid comeback for India's limited-overs team before the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa. Even though it has been almost two years since he featured in a white-ball game for India, Shardul is intent on playing consistently in domestic cricket to regain his place. Shardul's previous ODI game was for the 2023 World Cup against Bangladesh at Pune, in which he took a wicket in India's seven-wicket victory but did not get to bat. His latest game for India came in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 Tests against England, the last time he played in national colours. Barring the long lay-off, the Mumbai cricketer is sure that sheer hard work and consistent performances will work in his favour for a comeback. To Sports Tak, Shardul told: "What is important for me is to keep playing matches and perform. To get back to the Indian team, I need to deliver match-winning performances that can help in selection." Also Read | Gautam Gambhir Aims to Avoid Hat-Trick of Series Losses Against Australia After BGT and ODIs Emphasis on Domestic Cricket and Future Aspirations Now in charge of Mumbai in the current Ranji Trophy 2025–26 season, Shardul has had a reasonable initiation, claiming three wickets in two games and providing 38 runs in three innings. Though he acknowledges that it was not the best of starts, he is hopeful of his prospects. Shardul said: "The ODI World Cup is in South Africa, so there might be an opening for a bowling all-rounder at No. 8, and I am eyeing that spot. In terms of preparation, I am in such a position that if I am asked to play international cricket tomorrow, I am ready.” Mumbai’s last Ranji Trophy match ended in a draw against Chhattisgarh, and they are now set to face Rajasthan in Jaipur from November 1. The team will also see the return of young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal for the upcoming clash. With his experience and determination, Shardul Thakur is eager to prove that he still has a lot to offer to Indian cricket, both with the ball and the bat.