As an all-rounder who has built a reputation for himself in international cricket, Axar Patel has had a fantastic 2021. When he began his Test debut versus England previously this year, the left-arm spin bowler made a tremendous impression with his lethal deliveries. In addition, he extended his fantasy run in the present Test series versus New Zealand.
After taking five wickets in the first Test, the lefty struck his maiden Test 50 in the 2nd match and followed it up with a quick-fire 41. In terms of statistics, the all-rounder has 5 five-fers in his first 5 Tests, combined with a few useful innings with the bat. Axar couldn’t have asked for a better way to begin his Test career.
Also, Axar stated that producing in whites for India was his desire. “Actually, this has been my dream year you can say. The way I bowled in England series and now how the New Zealand series panned out, in between, there was IPL so I can say that this has really been a good year for me personally,” said Axar.
I couldn’t convert my starts but this time I was able to: Axar Patel
“My endeavour is to keep improving and look at areas where I need to get better. All the hard work that I have put in all these years have finally yielded results this year. The batting coach (Vicky Rathour) and team management has faith in my batting abilities, and they have always told me that ‘you can do it’. Earlier, when I got chances, I couldn’t convert my starts but this time when I got chances, I was able to convert,” he added.
Despite proving his potential as a three-dimensional player, Axar is expected to stay on the bench in the next Test series versus South Africa. The left-arm spinner has been well aware of this fact.
“Team management discusses with us and they tell us whether we fit in team combination or not. Whatever is priority for team is done and we just tell ourselves that we should focus on our routines and how we can keep improving,” the 27-year-old concluded.
