Indian all-rounder Axar Patel has been in and out of the Playing XI for India in the limited-overs formats since the T20 World Cup last year. In the ongoing Caribbean tour, the spinner has been played only 1 ODI so far. However, he has been named in the squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series, starting from August 3 in Trinidad.
While the all-rounder wasn’t given much chance due to inclusion of Ravindra Jadeja, Patel is likely to get plenty of opportunities in 5-match T20I series as Jadeja has been rested for the series.
Golden opportunity to SEAL World Cup spot
This series will be a crucial opportunity for Patel to showcase his skills and cement his place in the Indian team, especially with the 2023 World Cup in mind. Patel has played only 17 T20Is for India so far, picking up 18 wickets at an economy rate of 6.84. He has also scored 122 runs at a strike rate of 132.60, with a highest score of 64*.
Patel’s last T20I appearance was against Sri Lanka in January, where he scored a quick-fire 21 off 9 balls and took one wicket.
Patel’s ability to bowl tight overs in the powerplay and at the death, as well as his handy lower-order batting, makes him a valuable asset for any T20 team. But with Ravindra Jadeja also in contention, Patel will have to come up with some exceptional performances to impress the selectors and Team management to be part of the World Cup 2023.
Axar Patel’s performance in 2023 – In Numbers
If we talk about Axar’s performance in 2023, the numbers have not been very impressive. The all-rounder has played 3 T20Is and 6 ODIs in limited overs format and has taken 6 wickets overall. While he averaged 24 in T20Is, his average in ODIs is concerning with over 53 in 6 matches.
However, the coming 5 T20Is will give Axar a chance to improve his stats and earn back team management’s confidence.
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