India has been dealt a significant blow ahead of the ICC World Cup 2023 with the expected absence of Axar Patel due to injury. Axar Patel was originally named in India’s squad for the ICC World Cup 2023 but sustained an injury during the Asia Cup 2023 after showcasing impressive batting skills.
While Ravichandran Ashwin is considered a suitable replacement for Axar Patel in India’s World Cup squad, the off-spinner has not featured in ODIs for an extended period. Therefore, India might explore other options to fill the void left by Patel. Here, we discuss three players, apart from Ravichandran Ashwin, who could potentially replace Axar Patel in India’s World Cup squad.
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1. Washington Sundar
Washington Sundar emerges as a top candidate to fill the vacancy created by Axar Patel’s injury in India’s ICC World Cup 2023 squad. Like Patel, Sundar is a spin all-rounder, and his right-arm off-spin would offer a valuable variation to the team’s spin department.
Sundar is not just a capable bowler but also a powerful lower-order batsman. His ability to strike big shots makes him a valuable asset in crunch situations. In 17 ODIs to date, Washington Sundar has accumulated 233 runs and claimed 16 wickets at an average of 27.19, showcasing his all-round capabilities.
2. Shahbaz Ahmed
Another intriguing choice to replace Axar Patel in the ICC World Cup 2023 squad, aside from Ravichandran Ashwin, is Shahbaz Ahmed. This left-arm spinner possesses a similar skill set to that of Patel, making him a strong contender for the role of spin all-rounder.
Shahbaz Ahmed has already donned the Indian jersey in ODIs, having featured in three matches last year. He showcased his utility by securing three wickets at an impressive economy rate of just 4.81. Additionally, his ability to contribute with the bat adds depth to his credentials, and his experience in the Indian Premier League further enhances his suitability.
3. Yuzvendra Chahal
One name that immediately comes to mind as a replacement for Axar Patel is Yuzvendra Chahal. The leg-spinning maestro was not initially picked in the ICC World Cup 2023 squad, as Kuldeep Yadav secured his spot with a stellar performance in 2023.
If Axar Patel is indeed ruled out, Chahal could be a valuable addition to the squad. His inclusion would provide India with a right-arm spinning option, further enhancing the team’s variety in the spin department. Chahal boasts extensive ODI experience, having claimed 121 wickets in 72 matches since his debut in 2016.
