Cricket

Axar Patel's remarkable batting performance for Delhi Capitals against Gujarat Titans has reignited the debate over his inclusion in India's T20 World Cup squad ahead of Ravindra Jadeja. Both players are left-arm spinners, exceptional fielders, and capable batsmen. However, Axar's T20 batting prowess appears to surpass Jadeja's, as evidenced by his ability to execute powerful shots and adapt to various batting situations.While Jadeja's heroics in the IPL final last year, where he secured the title for Chennai Super Kings with a six and a four, cannot be overlooked, Axar's recent performances suggest he may be a more suitable choice for the T20 World Cup. In this IPL season, both players have comparable statistics. Axar has amassed 123 runs in nine matches with a strike rate of 132.36, while Jadeja has scored 157 runs with a strike rate of 131.93. However, Axar's superior six-hitting ability, a crucial aspect of T20 cricket, sets him apart. He has struck five maximums compared to Jadeja's two.Axar's taller trajectory and quicker round-arm action may also enhance his effectiveness as a bowler in the West Indies, where wickets tend to offer more grip. While Jadeja excels as a bowler in ODIs and Tests, his T20 bowling can become predictable due to his consistent line and length, making it easier for batters to counter him.In this IPL, Axar has claimed seven wickets in nine matches with an impressive economy rate of 7.06, a remarkable feat considering the flat wickets. He has also bowled 53 dot balls in 186 deliveries, demonstrating his ability to restrict runs. Rishabh Pant has effectively utilized Axar in the powerplay as well.In contrast, Jadeja has managed only four wickets despite bowling in spin-friendly conditions. His economy rate has also been higher at 7.85, and he has bowled fewer dots (43).Their T20I records are also comparable. In 52 games, Axar has scored 361 runs with a strike rate of 144.40 and taken 49 wickets with an economy rate of 7.26. Jadeja has played 66 games, scoring 480 runs with a strike rate of 125.32 and taking 53 wickets with an economy rate of 7.10.However, this IPL has highlighted Jadeja's inability to accelerate the game's pace when batting at No. 4. In contrast, Axar Patel has demonstrated his versatility by starting slowly at No. 3 and then accelerating his innings, showcasing his wide range of strokes against Gujarat Titans.

Rishabh Pant's scintillating knock against Gujarat Titans has reignited hopes of his return to form ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup. Delhi Capitals' batting coach, Pravin Amre, believes Pant's performance is a testament to his hard work and determination.After recovering from a horrific car accident in December 2022, Pant returned to competitive cricket a month ago. His unbeaten 88 off 43 balls against Gujarat Titans has virtually sealed his spot as India's first-choice wicketkeeper for the T20 World Cup.Amre praised Pant's dedication and preparation, highlighting his two-week camp in Vizag where he arrived straight from the airport. "He was hungry and made sure everyday he is going to utilise," Amre said.Pant's partnership with Axar Patel (66 off 43) was crucial in Delhi Capitals' victory. Amre believes Axar's promotion to the No.3 spot was a strategic move that paid off. "Axar played very well, but the partnership he had with Rishabh was striking," Amre said.Amre emphasized the importance of Pant's power-hitting in the last five overs, which made the difference in the match. "Rishabh was confident and he single-handedly batted very well in the last 5 overs," Amre said.Gujarat Titans spinner Sai Kishore acknowledged the impact of Pant and Axar's partnership. "Axar and Pant batted really well. Rishabh scored a lot of boundaries off good balls," Kishore said.Pant's performance has not only boosted his confidence but also raised expectations for his performance in the T20 World Cup. Amre believes Pant is ready to roar and make a significant contribution to India's campaign.

Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans Clash in Crucial Mid-Table BattleDelhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans, both hovering in the middle of the IPL standings, face off in a pivotal match that could shape their playoff aspirations.Capitals' Inconsistent FormThe Capitals have displayed both brilliance and inconsistency this season. While they boast some of the league's best powerplay bowling performances, they also have the second-highest economy rate in the first six overs. Their recent loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad, despite dismissing Gujarat Titans for a record low last week, highlights their vulnerability.Titans' Spin ProwessThe Titans possess a formidable spin attack led by Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, and R Sai Kishore. These spinners will pose a significant challenge to the Capitals' batting lineup, which has struggled against slow bowling this season.Capitals' Spin ResponseThe Capitals, however, have their own spin weapons in Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav. Patel's economical spell in the high-scoring match against Sunrisers and Yadav's four-wicket haul against Gujarat Titans demonstrate their ability to counter spin.Venue FactorThe match will be played at the Kotla, a ground traditionally known for its short square boundaries and high-scoring matches. This will favor the batters, but the spinners on both sides will need to adapt to the conditions.Team News and Impact PlayersDelhi Capitals will miss Mitchell Marsh due to injury, while Ishant Kumar is doubtful. Prithvi Shaw could be brought in as an impact player, while Jharkhand's Kumar Kushagra is a potential option for extra batting depth.Gujarat Titans may swap Sai Sudharsan and Mohit Sharma as their Impact Player depending on the match situation. Mohit has an impressive economy rate in the death overs.Players in FocusDavid Warner's recent low scores have raised questions about his form, while Jake Fraser-McGurk's powerplay hitting has impressed. Shubman Gill, who had a stellar IPL 2023, has struggled this season, and his performance could be crucial for the Titans' playoff hopes.