All-rounder Axar Patel rescued India D from the clutches of a total collapse in the team’s first Duleep Trophy game against India C in Anantapur. The southpaw came into bat when the side lost half their players within the first session of the day’s play. Axar managed to hold fort until lunch post which he stepped on the accelerator.
Axar Patel saves India D on Day 1
Axar Patel went on a fury after the game resumed post lunch, targeting Manav Suthar and Hrithik Shokeen. He majorly dealt in boundaries and struck six fours and sixes during his knock. Axar taking the bowlers to the cleaners was the only positive for India D who were completely dismantled by India C bowlers.
India D’s epic collapse
After losing opener Atharva Taide early in the innings, skipper Shreyas Iyer was soon sent back to the pavilion for just 9 runs. The downfall continued with Devdutt Padikkal and Ricky Bhui flopping. Axar and KS Bharat then managed to anchor the innings for a while before the latter was dismissed. At the stroke of lunch, India D lost their seventh wicket as Saransh Jain was dismissed.
What this knock means for Axar Patel
Axar Patel will most likely be in the scheme of things when the selectors pick the India squad for the Bangladesh series. With a long Test season coming up, the team will benefit from tje all-round services that Axar Patel can provide. Moreover, the team could depend on the all-rounder both with bat and ball since they will be playing at home. This knock can be a proof to the selectors that India’s batting depth can become better if Axar is also included in the squad.
