‘We will need him’ - Harbhajan Singh raises concerns over star all-rounder’s injury

Even after India’s imposing 48-run victory over New Zealand in the opening T20I, former India great Harbhajan Singh has raised concerns over an injury scare for the Men in Blue during the encounter. 

While India set a massive 238/7 and comfortably restricted the Blackcaps to 190/7 in Nagpur, former spinner’s attention was drawn to a potential injury concern involving senior all-rounder Axar Patel, a scenario that could complicate India’s plans as they build towards the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2026 in February.

The left-arm spinner sustained a blow to his finger while attempting to field off his own bowling, and subsequently left the field in pain. He did not even return to the field, with Abhishek Sharma completing his remaining over. Harbhajan remarked that the team needs to take care of the players ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup. 

"I am concerned about one thing. Axar Patel suffered an injury to his finger, and I hope that it is not a serious injury and that he recovers soon. I seriously hope that he does not miss the World Cup for this reason, because we will need him. He is a crucial player for us," the spinner said on his YouTube channel.

The Men in Blue are already struggling with injury concerns with two key players, Tilak Varma and Washington Sundar, not being fit to participate in the ongoing series ahead of the T20 WC.  

Have no doubt that India will win against New Zealand: Harbhajan Singh

The legendary spinner further opined that India will easily win the five-match series after a thumping performance in the opening match. They scored a mammoth 238 in their 20 overs with Abhishek Sharma leading the charge with a 35-ball 84-run knock.

"The way Team India are playing, I have no doubt that they will win this series. India smashed 238-7 in 20 overs. Yes, you heard that right. This is the new way that Team India goes about things and just smashes opponents. 239 is such a big target, how could have New Zealand even tried to chase that down? New Zealand tried well, but they already lost the match after Abhishek Sharma and Rinku Singh's knocks," Harbhajan concluded.