New Delhi: Appointed India’s vice-captain for the upcoming T20I series against England, Axar Patel defended the team management for making some harsh calls while selecting the teams. Patel was speaking to the media ahead of the five-match T20I series against England. The opening match of the series will be played at iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Wednesday.
Following the T20I series, the teams will face off in a three-ODI series before flying to Dubai for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.
Speaking to the press, Axar opened up on the team’s batting order and the selection calls made by the leadership group.
Batting-order needs to be flexible
Axar said that the batters, except the openers, need to be flexible enough to be used as floaters as per the match situation. The left-arm spinner is also part of the leadership group that has made certain hard calls while selecting the team for the England T20Is.
“The T20 team is settled. There is not much pressure. When you are in the leadership group you have to make some harsh decisions. These are the discussions we have,” Axar said.
He also said that Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma – the two openers – have fixed slots but batters from one down to No.7 need to be flexible and ready to bat in any position depending on the match situation.
Axar himself has performed the role of a floater in the past and told the media that everyone in the team except openers should adjust to the demands of the match situation.
Axar turns 31
Here’s wishing #TeamIndia All-rounder and ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 winner – Axar Patel – a very Happy Birthday 🎂👏@akshar2026 pic.twitter.com/d668RYd16F
— BCCI (@BCCI) January 20, 2025
The left-armer, who was one of India’s unsung heroes in the 2024 T20 World Cup victorious campaign, turned 31 today (January 20, Monday). The all-rounder picked up three wickets in the semifinal against England and scored a crucial 47 off 31 balls in the final against South Africa. Fans on social media wished Axar a very Happy Birthday with heartfelt posts.
Speaking to the press ahead of England T20Is, Axar Patel opened up on the team’s batting order and the selection calls made by the leadership group. Cricket Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
