Will Axar Patel be available for final two SA T20Is?
What's the story
India's five-match T20I series against South Africa has been hit by a major blow, with experienced all-rounder Axar Patel ruled out of the final two matches due to illness, as per Sports Tak. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is yet to announce his replacement for the remaining fixtures. India won the first match but lost the second. They then clinched the third fixture to go 2-1 up in the series.
Series contribution
Patel's performance in the series
Patel had a strong start to the T20I series against South Africa, with major contributions in the first match. He bowled an economical spell, picking two wickets for just seven runs as South Africa was bundled out for 74. India won that match by a whopping 101 runs. In the second T20I, Patel bowled three overs and picked up a wicket while conceding 27 runs. He missed the third game with Kuldeep Yadav replacing him in the XI.
Information
Paltry returns with the bat
Meanwhile, Patel's batting has been underwhelming as the all-rounder has a strike rate of just 104 in the ongoing series. He scored 44 runs. His promotion to number three in the second game was highly criticized.
Injury concerns
Uncertainty over Bumrah's availability
Along with Patel, there is also uncertainty over Jasprit Bumrah's availability. He returned home on December 14 due to personal reasons and the board has not yet confirmed his status for the next match. The fourth T20I of the series will be played at Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on December 17. A win in this match will help India clinch the series before its final game.