Every opportunity counts if you are on the threshold of an India call-up. Pacer Shardul Thakur is no different.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) was another chance the 24-year-old was looking at to up his stakes for an India cap. The Mumbai pacer had everything going for him — a phenomenal Ranji Trophy season with the champion side for whom he grabbed 41 wickets in 11 matches to finish at seventh position in the competition. His eight-wicket haul in the Ranji final against Saurashtra received praise from all quarters.