Mohor Chaudhuri
In a team brimming with flair and talent, Axar Patel continues to be India’s underrated constant – the man who does his job with on-point efficiency and impeccable timing. The 4th T20I against Australia at the Carrara Oval was yet another testament of his value to the Indian team. When India were struggling to finish strongly after a brisk start, especially after a middle-order collapse, Axar’s cameo of 21 off 11 balls helped them reach a respectable total. Walking in at a very crucial juncture, Axar unleashed a flurry of crisp boundaries – including a powerful straight drive and a six over midwicket that had the crowd on its feet. His short but impactful innings was not just about runs, but it showed intent, timing, and the ability to seize momentum, especially when it mattered most.
With the ball, he was equally incisive. Bowling with control and clarity, Axar dismissed Josh Inglis and Matt Short, just when Australia had started to gain momentum. His spell tightened India’s grip on the game, causing the innings to stall and crumble under pressure. His ability to vary pace stood out, and it was a reminder that his calm demeanour often masks a killer instinct, ready to strike whenever required.
The story of his excellence, however, stretches beyond this series. His blistering 47 off 31 balls in the T20 World Cup final last year helped India immensely, and showed his readiness for the big stage, especially in clutch situations.
Axar’smay not be the most eye-catching name in a star-studded lineup, but he has proved himself a reliable and dependable addition to the team, whenever India needs a moment of calm or a spark of momentum. He wasadjudged the Player of the match for his all-round excellence, and needless to say, he provides the balance thatIndia cannot afford to lose.
After India were asked to bat first at the Carrara Oval, Shubman Gill played the anchor role to perfection. His 46 off 39 balls was built on timing, placement and a sense of maturity. His knock could be criticised on the basis of a slow strike-rate, but on a pitch where even the biggest hitters struggled, he stood his ground,and absorbed the pressure, which allowed others to bat around him.
Earlier, it was Virat Kohli who was constantly questioned and criticised for a similar style of play, but as we often saw, those very knocks often aided India’s strategy and success. This ability to adapt to conditions and play the necessary role, regardless of personal milestones or outside noise, reflects a deeper understanding of in-game situations.
Gill laid the foundation, and Axar finished the job. Between calmness and patience on one side, and aggression and intent on the other, India found the perfect equilibrium.
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