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Axar Patel, initially in the preliminary squad for the 2023 ODI World Cup, had to step aside due to injury, making room for Ravichandran Ashwin. Since his return, the 29-year-old all-rounder has been in exceptional form, earning him a prominent spot in the team. Aakash Chopra, the former cricketer, recently expressed his confidence in Axar Patel’s potential to represent India ahead of Ravindra Jadeja in the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Chopra’s Take on Axar Patel’s Performance
Following Axar Patel being named the Player of the Match in the second T20I against Afghanistan, Chopra conveyed his sentiments on his YouTube channel. He expressed a bit of concern, stating, “Axar Patel was given the Player of the Match award. I am scared when Axar gets the Player of the Match because he was dropped when he got two successive Player of the Match awards last time.”
Chopra’s fear alludes to the unpredictability of team selections, especially considering Axar’s past exclusion despite stellar performances.
The Dilemma Between Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja
While Axar Patel’s recent performances have been remarkable, Chopra highlighted the lack of clarity regarding India’s first-choice spinner who can bat at No. 7. In Chopra’s view, Axar Patel is the preferred choice, but he acknowledged the complicating factor of Ravindra Jadeja being named vice-captain during the South Africa tour.
“There is no clarity yet whether Ravindra Jadeja or Axar Patel is your first spinner who can bat at No. 7. It’s Axar Patel in my book. However, because the Indian team made Jaddu the vice-captain in the last series, maybe the team is thinking about Ravindra Jadeja,” Chopra added.
Concerns Over Rohit Sharma’s Form
Chopra also expressed surprise and concern over India skipper Rohit Sharma’s recent dismissals, particularly the uncharacteristic shot that led to his zero in two successive matches. Rohit’s unexpected struggles with the bat raise questions about the team’s captain in the T20 format.*
“It was extremely surprising the way Rohit got out. He was playing just his first ball. He doesn’t play such shots. The ball went and hit his stumps. He got run out in the last match and was bowled for zero in this match. He hasn’t scored a single run in this series thus far,” Chopra stated.
As the T20 World Cup approaches, India faces critical decisions regarding team composition, with Axar Patel’s stellar form adding an intriguing layer to the selection dilemma.
accordingly. Your personal judgment and preferences should guide your final choices.
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