Former Indian spinner Pragyan Ojha has expressed his belief that all-rounder Axar Patel could play a crucial role for India in the upcoming ODI World Cup, particularly in spin-friendly conditions. Ojha countered the notion that Patel was underutilized by the team management and highlighted his importance as an all-rounder.
Axar Patel made a return to the playing XI in the second ODI against the West Indies after being left out in the series opener. He batted at No. 4 but managed only one run and bowled just two overs without taking a wicket.
Ojha, speaking ahead of the third ODI against the West Indies, mentioned that Patel could have been introduced into the bowling attack a bit earlier in the second match.
“(It is) A bit too early to say that (Axar isn’t given consistent chances). Yes, he could’ve been used a little earlier (in 2nd ODI). He could’ve been given a run a bit more earlier. But saying that he hasn’t been utilized properly would be unfair, because one-off games are fine,” Pragyan Ojha said during an interaction with Hindustan Times organized by Jio Cinema.
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“We have to see what happens in the next 3-4 games. If you have to look at the setup for the World Cup, he is a very important member because we are playing in India. And in India, at some point, it will assist the spinners,” he added.
Ojha emphasized that Axar Patel’s ability as an all-rounder makes him a valuable asset for the team, particularly with his development as a batsman.
“You’d rather want someone like Axar who can bat and ball. We’ve seen what he’s done in IPL and domestic cricket. He’s matured as a batsman, and he’s bowling well. He’s a crucial member, one-odd game wouldn’t make a difference, and being critical about not giving him a chance in one-odd game would be very critical.”
However, Axar Patel was dropped from the final match and replaced by Ruturaj Gaikwad. The Rohit Sharma-led team’s next ODI match is scheduled to be in the Asia Cup 2023, which begins on August 30.