Cricket

Axar Patel's Heroics Rescue India D from Collapse in Duleep Trophy OpenerIn a thrilling opening day of the Duleep Trophy match between India D and India C in Anantapur, all-rounder Axar Patel emerged as the star performer, rescuing his team from a precarious position with a counter-attacking 86 and then chipping in with two crucial wickets.India D's batting order crumbled early on, with the pace duo of Anshul Kamboj and Vijaykumar Vyshak exploiting the responsive pitch to reduce them to a dismal 48 for six. However, Axar, batting at number seven, played a defiant innings, transitioning from a cautious start to an aggressive approach. He smashed six sixes, including three off left-arm spinner Manav Suthar, and propelled India D's total to 164 in 48.3 overs.Axar's batting heroics were complemented by his bowling contributions. He dismissed Aryan Juyal and Rajat Patidar to dent India C's progress, who ended the day at 91 for four, trailing by 73 runs. Wicketkeeper-batter Abhishek Porel remained unbeaten on 32, while Baba Indrajith was on 14 at stumps.India C's bowlers had earlier made early inroads into India D's batting lineup. Shreyas Iyer fell to a notable delivery from Vyshak, while opener Atharva Taide and Devdutt Padikkal were dismissed cheaply.Despite Axar's heroics, India D's innings was marred by questionable shot selections from several batsmen. Taide's attempted pull shot early in his innings and Padikkal's dismissal at cover off a straightforward ball highlighted the need for more disciplined batting.

India's newly appointed T20I skipper, Suryakumar Yadav, has earned praise from all-rounder Axar Patel for his leadership style. Patel described Yadav as a "bowlers' captain" who empowers his bowlers to execute their plans with confidence.In the recently concluded first T20I against Sri Lanka, Patel witnessed firsthand Yadav's approach. "He gives you free hand (in a way) that you decide first," Patel said. "Whenever you get hit, he comes and says that it was a good ball. He keeps giving you inputs."Patel emphasized the importance of this support for bowlers, as it instills confidence and allows them to take risks. "As a bowler, you get confidence from that if the captain is backing you and telling you that you can do this," he said.Patel also highlighted the team's focus on maximizing its batting combinations. In the first T20I, India experimented with a batting order that featured a balanced mix of left-handed and right-handed batters. This strategy aims to keep the opposition bowlers guessing and maintain a consistent scoring rate."Our team has four lefties and four righties," Patel explained. "If there is a left-right combination (in the middle), it becomes very hard for the bowlers to maintain the line and lengths consistently."Patel also touched upon the team's new coaching staff, led by head coach Gautam Gambhir. While acknowledging that there will be some changes in approach, Patel emphasized that the team's core values will remain intact."When we were talking in the team meeting, they also said the same thing that the coach and captain keep changing but the team remains the same and the 11 or 15 players who stay, they have to do it," Patel said. "They have told us that we will play the way we have been playing."

Suryakumar Yadav Hints at Axar Patel's Inclusion in Playing XI for Sri Lanka T20I OpenerNewly appointed Indian T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav has dropped a strong indication that left-arm spinner Axar Patel will play a crucial role in the upcoming series opener against Sri Lanka in Pallekele.As India embarks on a new era under Yadav's leadership, the team's strategy and team selection will be closely scrutinized. Yadav, who previously captained India to a 4-1 series victory over Australia in 2023, will be eager to establish his authority and guide the team to success.During India's first training session in Sri Lanka, Yadav was captured on camera advising Patel to "take it easy" and that he would be "seen bowling in the third and fourth over." This comment suggests that Patel is likely to be included in the playing XI for the first T20I, especially considering the spin-friendly conditions expected in Pallekele.Patel's inclusion aligns with the strategy employed by former T20I captain Rohit Sharma, who frequently utilized Patel's skills during the powerplay overs. Patel's ability to control the run rate and pick up wickets early on could prove invaluable for India in the upcoming series.Yadav's decision to include Patel in the playing XI also highlights the importance of spin bowling in T20 cricket. With the advent of power-hitting and aggressive batting, spinners have become increasingly crucial in providing control and variation. Patel's left-arm orthodox bowling style and ability to generate turn and bounce could be a potent weapon for India in Sri Lanka.As India prepares for the first T20I against Sri Lanka, all eyes will be on Yadav's leadership and the team's performance. The inclusion of Patel in the playing XI is a clear indication that Yadav is keen on utilizing the spinner's skills and establishing a balanced and effective team.

Suryakumar Yadav's sensational catch to dismiss David Miller in the T20 World Cup 2024 final proved to be a pivotal moment in India's triumph. The catch, which sparked controversy over whether Yadav's feet touched the boundary line, was hailed by teammate Axar Patel as "high-pressure" and "amazing."Patel, who was fielding at mid-wicket, initially believed the ball had cleared the boundary. However, Yadav's acrobatic effort left his teammates questioning whether he had stepped on the rope. "Even Surya bhai was not sure," Patel revealed. "First he said Yes I am confident and within a few seconds he said I am not sure. Thoda doubtful lag raha (I am not too sure)."Upon reviewing the replay, the Indian team erupted in jubilation, believing they had secured the World Cup. "It was a high-pressure catch and the way he maintained his balance was amazing," Patel said.Yadav's catch was not the only highlight of India's victory. Patel's own stunning catch at deep mid-wicket to dismiss Mitchell Marsh in the match against Australia also played a crucial role. However, Patel ranked Yadav's catch higher."That catch gave us the World Cup and I am happy with being the second-best," Patel said. "I was confident of taking it with both my hands. But it was flying and in the last second I had to time my jump, stretch my one hand and it stuck. But if I have to pick, any day I would keep Surya bhai's catch ahead of mine."Yadav's catch has been widely praised for its athleticism and precision. It is a testament to his exceptional fielding skills and his unwavering determination to contribute to India's success.

The T20 World Cup 2024 was a watershed moment for the Indian cricket team, marking the end of an 11-year ICC title drought. Despite facing adversity in the final against South Africa, India's resilience and determination shone through.After Axar Patel's costly 15th over, South Africa needed just 30 runs off 30 balls. Heinrich Klaasen's onslaught seemed to put the game beyond India's reach. However, Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya turned the tide with economical overs, restricting South Africa to just 10 runs in the 16th, 17th, and 18th overs.Arshdeep Singh's four-run 19th over set the stage for a thrilling finish. With 16 runs required off the last over, Pandya stepped up to bowl. Suryakumar Yadav's spectacular catch of David Miller in the final over sealed India's victory.Axar Patel, who had been under fire after his expensive over, revealed the mindset that fueled India's comeback. "For the first five seconds, I thought it was over," he admitted. "But Rohit bhai came to me and said, 'Match khatam nahi hua hai.' We were determined to fight until the end."Since the tournament, Axar has become an indispensable member of the Indian team, proving his worth as an all-format player. His performance in the T20 World Cup 2024 cemented his reputation as a match-winner.

Ravindra Jadeja's absence from India's squads for the upcoming Sri Lanka tour has sparked discussions about the future of the spin all-rounder position in the team. With the Champions Trophy on the horizon, the new management under head coach Gautam Gambhir is keen on exploring other options to build a team for the future.Jadeja has been a crucial part of India's ODI setup for the past decade, with an impressive record of 2756 runs and 220 wickets. However, the management believes that it is time to look at other options to ensure a smooth transition in the spin all-rounder role.Axar Patel has emerged as the first-choice spin all-rounder, with Washington Sundar being considered the second-choice. Both players have shown promise in recent performances, and the management is eager to give them more opportunities to prove their worth."There are only six ODIs, including the three in Sri Lanka, before next year's Champions Trophy," a BCCI source told the Hindustan Times. "The selectors want to utilize the handful of games by giving more opportunities to Axar Patel and Washington Sundar."Jadeja's position in the Test team remains unaffected, highlighting his importance in home conditions for India's World Test Championship bid."Jadeja is outstanding in Test cricket. His bowling in home conditions is unmatchable. He will be important for India's World Test Championship bid," the source added.The decisions made by the new management reflect a strategic shift towards grooming future talents ahead of the Champions Trophy. The Sri Lanka tour will provide a valuable opportunity for Axar Patel and Washington Sundar to showcase their skills and stake their claim for a permanent spot in the team.

Axar Patel's exceptional performance in the recently concluded T20 World Cup has solidified his status as a valuable asset to the Indian cricket team. His all-round abilities, particularly his wicket-taking prowess and crucial batting contributions, played a pivotal role in India's triumph.Axar's bowling skills were on full display throughout the tournament. He proved to be a reliable option in both the Powerplay and death overs, providing crucial breakthroughs and containing the opposition's scoring rate. His ability to bowl economical spells and pick up wickets at key moments was instrumental in India's success.However, it was Axar's batting that truly set him apart. In the final against South Africa, he played a vital knock of 47, helping India post a competitive total. His innings came at a crucial juncture, providing the team with much-needed momentum.Despite his impressive performance, Axar faced a setback in the final when Heinrich Klaasen launched a brutal assault on his bowling. The left-arm spinner conceded 49 runs in his allocated four overs, allowing South Africa to gain the upper hand.However, Axar's confidence remained unshaken thanks to the support of captain Rohit Sharma. In an exclusive interview with Cricbuzz, Axar revealed how Rohit's encouragement helped him overcome the setback. "Rohit approached me and reassured me, saying, 'It's alright. You bowled your best. If he hits a good shot, there's not much you can do. Just focus on the next ball.' His support and encouragement boosted my confidence," Axar said.Axar also praised Rohit's astute leadership during the tournament. He noted how Rohit effectively managed the team, extracting the best performances from each individual player. "Rohit Sharma is a brilliant captain. He understands each player's strengths and utilizes them according to the game's demands," Axar said.Axar's all-round contributions and the support of Rohit Sharma were key factors in India's T20 World Cup victory. His performance has cemented his place as a vital member of the team and a player to watch in the future.

Ravindra Jadeja's departure from T20I cricket has left a significant void in the Indian team, opening up a crucial spin-bowling allrounder position. Several contenders are vying for the spot, including Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, and Abhishek Sharma.Axar Patel remains the frontrunner after his impressive performances in high-pressure situations during the T20 World Cup. However, Washington Sundar has strengthened his claim with a standout performance in the recent Zimbabwe series, where he emerged as the joint-highest wicket-taker.Abhishek Sharma, a rising star, has also made a strong case for himself. While not a direct replacement for Sundar, Sharma's ability to bat at the top of the order and bowl left-arm spin makes him a versatile option.Sunrisers Hyderabad coach J Hariesh highlights the differences between Sundar and Sharma. Sundar is known for his consistency, while Sharma possesses a wider range of variations. However, Sharma's consistency is still a work in progress.Hariesh believes that Sharma and Sundar could potentially compete for the same spot in the Indian team. Sharma's destructive batting and ability to handle both spinners and new-ball bowlers make him a valuable asset.With the T20 World Cup in 2024 approaching, the competition for the spin-bowling allrounder role is expected to intensify. Sundar, Sharma, and Patel will need to maintain their form and prove their worth to secure a place in the Indian squad.

Rishabh Pant Flaunts T20 World Cup Medal, Teammates Respond with HumorIndian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant took to social media on Wednesday to share his joy over winning the T20 World Cup. Pant posted selfies with the coveted medal hanging around his neck, accompanied by the caption "This medal hits you differently."The post quickly went viral, garnering thousands of likes and comments. Pant's teammates, Axar Patel and Mohammed Siraj, couldn't resist teasing him with hilarious responses."Bhai same mere pass bhi hai," commented Axar, indicating that he also possessed the medal. Siraj joined in the fun, writing "bhai mere pass bhi h same."The Indian team, including Pant, Patel, and Siraj, had been stranded in Barbados for three days due to Hurricane Beryl. However, they finally departed on Wednesday on a special Air India flight.Pant's medal-flaunting post serves as a reminder of India's triumph at the T20 World Cup. The team defeated South Africa in a thrilling final on Saturday, securing their second T20 World Cup title.Pant played a crucial role in India's victory, scoring valuable runs and providing stability to the middle order. His performances throughout the tournament earned him praise from fans and experts alike.The T20 World Cup medal is a testament to Pant's hard work and dedication. It is a symbol of his contribution to India's historic triumph and will undoubtedly hold a special place in his heart.