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Axar Patel’s recent knock with the bat could see him pip Rishabh Pant for a spot in the 11 for India’s Champions Trophy side.
Axar Patel could be India’s ideal option against spin through the middle overs instead of Rishabh Pant. (Image: Sportzpics, AFP)
The former Indian cricketer, Sanjay Manjrekar suggested that Axar Patel’s stellar performance against England in the first ODI could derail Rishabh Pant’s chances of returning to the 50-over format.
Manjrekar reflected on how India has found an ideal left-handed batting option that can take on spin. He highlighted how India has struggled against spin in the middle overs and Axar could be the perfect solution to their problem as the Men in Blue prepare themselves for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025.
“Before the match started and I picked my playing 11, there was a suggestion from me that Rishabh Pant could be tried, only with the Champions Trophy in mind. Plus, India would have a left-hander in the top six or seven,” he commented on ESPNCricinfo.
“Now Axar Patel is a great option to have because this is a guy who’s been batting in Test matches for India, has a batter’s temperament. I thought that was a really smart move to have him bat up the order in a pure batter’s position ahead of Jadeja. Boy, he looked good against spinners,” he added.
Pant has had his fair share of struggles in limited-overs cricket and does not boast a stellar record, particularly in one-day cricket. In 31 ODIs, he has scored 871 runs at an average of just 33.5. Axar’s recent performance saw him score a half-century along with building a century-stand with Shubman Gill to take India to the brink of securing the victory.
“Because the Champions Trophy is going to be played in our part of the world, there’s going to be a lot of spin impact on the game. Axar Patel is a terrific option to have in the middle and it might derail Rishabh Pant’s chances of coming back in,” he concluded.
With two more ODIs coming up against England, India could be tempted to mix things up to give everyone playing time, but it remains to be seen if Pant could be given a go to showcase his talents and possibly make a case for selection. But it can be unlikely as Axar provides an additional option with the ball as well.
