Ajinkya Rahane described Axar Patel as a “underrated player,” pointing out how the spin-bowling all-rounder has developed his skill sets in recent years.
Axar was named vice-captain of the Indian T20I team for the home series against England earlier this year. While he performed admirably and helped India win, the Gujarat batsman was replaced as India’s vice-captain in the shortest format by Shubman Gill ahead of the Asia Cup.
Rahane believes that Axar has done well for India anytime he has been given the opportunity, whether with the bat or the ball. The Mumbai batsman also noted his versatility as a bowler, stating that he can function at various stages of the game.
“I feel he is a very much underrated player. He has improved as a player, as a cricketer in the last two to three years. He has done really well. Whenever he’s got an opportunity as a batter, as a bowler, he has performed really well for the team. He can bowl with the new ball in the powerplay, he can bowl in the middle phase as well, and if needed, he can bowl in death overs,” Rahane said in his latest YouTube video.
You are always happy with a player like Axar Patel in the team: Ajinkya Rahane
Rahane said that having a player like Axar in the team will make any captain happy. The Kolkata Knight Riders’ skipper also spoke highly about Axar’s fielding abilities. He backed the Delhi Capitals’ captain to do well in the Asia Cup.
“As a captain, when you have a player like Axar Patel in the team, you are always happy. Let’s not forget about his fielding ability as well. And also, Asia Cup is in Dubai. Most probably, the wickets will favor the spinners. So, Axar’s skill work and also experience will come in handy for the team,” Rahane opined.
India begin their Asia Cup campaign on Wednesday, September 10, as they take on hosts UAE at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
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