Axar Patel expressed disappointment about missing the World Cup but sees it as a valuable opportunity to re-engage with his process. He expressed his emotions on a talk show on Jio Cinema.
Axar Patel said, “I was disappointed to miss the World Cup, but this is a great opportunity for me to get back into my process”.
In a crucial development ahead of the ICC World Cup 2023, veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin was named as a replacement for the injured Axar Patel in India’s final squad. The decision was announced as India unveiled its squad for the upcoming World Cup, where Ashwin’s stellar performance in the recent India-Australia series played a pivotal role in securing his spot.
Axar Patel, who had sustained a left quadriceps strain during the Asia Cup 2023 and subsequently missed the series against Australia, failed to recover in time for the World Cup. This setback opened the door for Ravichandran Ashwin, whose impressive return to ODI cricket against Australia, claiming four wickets in two games, bolstered his case for inclusion.
The inclusion of Ashwin addressed the fans’ demand for an all-rounder in the squad, particularly for the crucial number 8 position. While Axar Patel had showcased his lower-order batting skills, fans pointed out Ashwin’s explosive batting abilities, adding versatility to the team’s composition.
The experienced off-spinner brought more than just his bowling prowess to the team. With extensive experience in ODIs, backed by 155 wickets from 115 matches, Ashwin’s familiarity with the sluggish pitches in Chennai, where India kicked off its World Cup campaign against Australia on October 8, became a valuable asset. His presence as the sole specialist off-spinner further enhanced India’s spin-bowling options.
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