Setback for India: Axar Patel Likely Ruled Out of Remaining SA T20Is

Axar Patel Ruled Out of South Africa T20Is Series

Axar Patel sidelined due to illness

India have reportedly suffered a blow ahead of the remaining matches of the South Africa T20I series, with all-rounder Axar Patel set to miss the rest of the games due to illness. The left-hander was absent from the third T20I, and although the BCCI is yet to issue an official statement, reports suggest he will not feature again in the series against the Proteas. So let’s know about Axar Patel ruled out of South Africa T20Is.

According to a Sports Tak report, Axar’s illness is not considered serious, and he is expected to recover in time for India’s upcoming white-ball assignment against New Zealand next month. However, for the ongoing series, his participation appears to be over.

No official replacement announced yet

As things stand, the Indian team management has not named a replacement for Axar Patel. It is understood that India may stick with the same playing XI that delivered a convincing win in the third T20I at Dharamsala.

India were also without Jasprit Bumrah in that match, as the fast bowler missed the game due to personal reasons. There is still no clarity on Bumrah’s availability for the fourth T20I, scheduled to be played in Lucknow.

How much will India miss Axar Patel?

Axar’s absence may not significantly disrupt India’s plans, especially considering the dominant performance by the rest of the bowling unit in the third T20I. South Africa were bundled out for just 117, with multiple bowlers contributing effectively in Axar’s absence.

From a team balance perspective, Washington Sundar is seen as a like-for-like option, capable of filling Axar’s role as a spin-bowling all-rounder. With additional bowling depth and multiple batting options available, India appear well covered.

Axar’s underwhelming series so far

Axar Patel has not had the best of outings in the ongoing T20I series. In the two matches he featured in, the all-rounder managed a strike rate of just over 100 with the bat and picked up three wickets with the ball. While his experience is valuable, his numbers suggest that India can cope without him for the remainder of the series.

India confident ahead of final T20Is

With a strong squad and momentum on their side, India are unlikely to be overly concerned about Axar Patel’s absence. The team’s depth in both batting and bowling provides flexibility, and the management is expected to back the winning combination as they look to close out the series against a formidable South African side.