Champions Trophy: Axar Patel relishing batting promotion, reflects on success
What's the story
Indian all-rounder, Axar Patel, has said that he is happy with his new batting position in the ODI lineup. He feels the change has boosted his confidence a lot and he has been able to play freely. His recent show in the ongoing Champions Trophy, especially against New Zealand, has cemented his place as a dependable player in India's ODI line-up. Here are further details.
Key performance
Axar's pivotal role in India's Champions Trophy victory
In the match against New Zealand, Axar Patel scored 42 runs off 61 balls at while batting at number 5, playing a crucial role in India's 44-run victory. His innings helped India finish the group stage unbeaten. After the match, Axar shared how batting higher up the order has boosted his confidence and allowed him to adapt to the team's needs without feeling pressured from a lower-order position.
Strategic shift
Axar's new approach enhances his batting strategy
Axar emphasized a strategic shift in his batting approach owing to his new position. "When I get an opportunity, I try to bat based on the situation. But now, the approach has changed," he said after the match. He said he doesn't feel pressured to score quickly anymore and can play according to the team's needs, with more batsmen behind him. This has given him more time and flexibility during innings.
Key partnership
Axar's pivotal partnership with Shreyas Iyer
In the match against New Zealand, Axar stitched a vital 98-run partnership with Shreyas Iyer. The partnership stabilized India's innings after the top-order batsmen faltered. Their efforts guided India to a competitive total of 249/10, paving the way for Varun Chakravarthy's five-wicket haul and India's third successive victory in the group stage.
Career evolution
Axar's journey as a confident all-rounder
Axar credited his unbeaten 64 off 35 balls against West Indies in 2022 as a turning point in his career. It was this innings that made him realize his potential as a genuine all-rounder, rather than just a lower-order batsman. "After that match against the West Indies, I knew I could finish games," he said, reflecting on this pivotal moment in his journey.