Unleashing Axar: A High-Spirited Response to TWorld Cup Squad Competition

Axar Patel made a significant impact during the first T20I of the series against Afghanistan, securing two wickets while conceding only 23 runs.

by MOHAMMED AZMATHULLA

India’s Axar Patel bowls during the first T20 cricket match between India and Afghanistan in Mohali, India

Axar Patel, Team India’s star all-rounder, delivered an exceptional performance with the ball in the first T20I against Afghanistan on Thursday. Despite challenging conditions with dew and difficulties in gripping the ball due to Mohali’s winter, Axar showcased his skills by taking 2 wickets for 23 runs in his four overs. This outstanding spell played a crucial role in limiting Afghanistan to 158/5 in 20 overs. As a result, India secured a convincing six-wicket victory, taking a 1-0 lead in the series.

With only two more T20Is left before the upcoming World Cup in the West Indies and the USA, the Indian team is in a critical phase. They will soon engage in a five-Test series against England before the Indian Premier League, which will play a pivotal role in shaping the T20I squad for the global tournament.

Axar Patel, who missed the previous year’s ODI World Cup due to injury, acknowledges the competition for spots in the Indian squad. However, he emphasizes the importance of focusing on individual performance and the present rather than getting overwhelmed by thoughts of the World Cup.

“I think, see, I don’t think like that. Obviously, there is competition. But it depends on how you see it. You can’t control the result, but you can give your 100 per cent and focus on your process. You can’t put yourself under pressure by thinking about the World Cup right now. You have seen my record… I can do anything! (smiles),” Axar stated in the post-match press conference.

Axar also highlighted his satisfaction with the results of his efforts at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), which translated into successful performances in the series against Australia and the initial game against Afghanistan. He mentioned his strategy of not being overtly aggressive on the Mohali pitch and credited the batsmen taking chances against him, as well as mixing up deliveries like slower balls. Axar expressed his intention to maintain pressure on the opposition batsmen in the upcoming matches.