Shiv Thakor says he is relishing his new responsibility at the top of the batting line-up following his maiden List A century versus Northants Steelbacks in the Royal London One-Day Cup.
A score of 309-4 against Northamptonshire in the Royal London Cup on Sunday was the county’s highest winning run chase in one-day cricket and Shiv Thakor’s 130, his best List A innings, was both an impressive demonstration of power and timing and a declaration of intent.
His willingness to move up the order to take on the number three role this season showed he is not afraid to back his ambition of playing at the highest level by taking on extra responsibility.
The 23-year-old had one of his best season’s in 2016 until it was ended prematurely by a back injury so it was reassuring to see him perform strongly with the ball before embarking on his match-winning hundred.
The only disappointment was that he did not walk off the field unbeaten but the way he took the game away from the opposition during a stand of 168 with skipper Billy Godleman suggested his promotion will be fully justified.
“I’ve batted at number three growing up and there was an opportunity to do something I wanted and relish,” he said.
“It’s great to bat that high because you have a chance to impact games and contribute match-winning performances.
“I want to test myself at number three and if I have aspirations in the game I’ve got to do it up there and make significant runs because that’s where you can help the team. It was something I really wanted to do and I was very lucky that the club decided to support me “
His 3-39 was also important in keeping Northants in range and he admitted it was his most consistent display with the ball.
“It’s nice to get some wickets and I’ve been a bit disappointed with how I’ve started with the ball this season which I think we all have.
“We’ve been good in patches but not for long periods so it was nice to contribute a lot more than I have and put in a significant performance. But the main thing is no matter who gets the runs and wickets because it will be different every day, the important thing is we all stick together.”
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