India batter Ajinkya Rahane criticized the team management for leaving out Axar Patel from the playing XI in their Super Eight match against South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on February 22.
Rahane pointed out that Axar is the vice-captain and mentioned that the team should avoid overanalyzing match-ups. India chose off-spinner Washington Sundar to take advantage of four left-handers in South Africa’s top order. Axar also missed India’s previous group-stage match against the Netherlands, which India won by 17 runs.
“The pitch looks similar to the last one we played on — not much difference. We’re happy to bowl first. It’s tough on Axar Patel, but we’re going with the same XI as the last game,” captain Suryakumar said during the toss.
Rahane further mentioned Axar’s significant impact in the 2024 World Cup, asserting that he should have been included in the XI after resting in the last match.
“Left-arm bowlers can bowl against left-handed batters; it’s straightforward. Axar is a quality spinner and a wicket-taker who is also the vice-captain. His role in the Indian team is crucial, as we saw in the last World Cup,” said Ajinkya Rahane.
‘Whatever the position, he always delivers’ – Michael Vaughan on Axar Patel
Rahane’s co-panellist, former England captain Michael Vaughan, supported this view, emphasizing Axar’s strong performance against left-handed batters.
“No Axar? If you look at his record against left-handers, his economy is lower. If you’re leading the team, you know he will perform well. If you get consistent performances from most players and big contributions from a couple, that’s a winning strategy. Whatever position he is in, he always delivers,” Vaughan stated.
