Axar Patel is getting smarter as a cricketer: Sunil Joshi

Axar Patel’s inclusion in the playing XI during the T20 World Cup 2024 created quite a buzz, especially with Ravindra Jadeja also being present. He was preferred ahead of Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal in the group stage of the competition which made one wonder regarding his role in the team. However, as the tournament progressed, the all-rounder proved his value and emerged as one of India’s match-winners.

The 30-year-old was handed the ball in the powerplay and was promoted in the batting order from time to time but Axar never complained and proved to be the unsung hero of the Indian team. On the night of the final, when India were reduced to 34/3, Axar played a vital knock of 47 runs off 31 deliveries, which helped India regain momentum and eventually win the match by seven wickets.

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Former India cricketer Sunil Joshi was extremely impressed with Axar’s performance and stated that he is getting smarter with time. He noted that the Southpaw can adjust to any situation and is getting better and sharper.

“Even in the New York wicket, where there wasn’t enough help for the spinners, Axar bowled quite well. He’s someone who’s always looking to vary his pace, adjust his length and read the wicket. He’s only getting smarter as a cricketer,” Joshi told The Telegraph.

“The smart cricketer that Axar is, he can adjust no matter which position he bats at. As he’s growing in seniority, the better and sharper he seems to be getting,” Joshi, current spin bowling coach of Punjab Kings, pointed out.

Axar’s position in the team has certainly gained greater significance: BCCI official

One of the BCCI officials believes that Axar’s position in the team has gained greater significance and after Jadeja retires from T20I cricket, he will be getting a lot of opportunities. He reminded Axar’s crucial knock in the final and believes that the all-rounder will now be an automatic choice.

“After such an impressive performance in this World Cup, Axar’s position in the team has certainly gained greater significance. His contribution with the bat in the final was almost as vital as Kohli’s as his shots gave the team much-needed momentum after the loss of three big wickets. So, in T20Is at least, he’s now as good as an automatic choice,” a BCCI official said.