Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has expressed his belief that all-rounder Axar Patel will secure a spot in the Indian team for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Ganguly highlighted Patel’s versatility as a key factor in his selection, emphasizing his ability to contribute both with the bat and ball.
Patel has impressed throughout the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season, showcasing his bowling prowess with an impressive economy rate of 7.06. However, it is his batting that has caught Ganguly’s attention. When promoted up the order against the Gujarat Titans, Patel displayed his power-hitting abilities, demonstrating his potential to provide valuable runs in the middle order.
“Axar is a certainty for the T20 World Cup,” Ganguly stated. “He can bat at No. 8 and contribute 15-20 runs, which is crucial in T20 cricket. He can also smack spinners, making him a valuable asset.”
Ganguly, who serves as the Director of Cricket for the Delhi Capitals, praised Patel’s all-around abilities, comparing him to fellow all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. “Jadeja and Axar are incredibly talented and gifted,” Ganguly said. “They can bat, bowl, and field, making them invaluable to any team.”
Ganguly also acknowledged Patel’s batting prowess in Test cricket, highlighting his ability to score runs under pressure on turning pitches. “He has the ability to strike the ball and doesn’t need time for technique in T20 cricket,” Ganguly explained. “He’s a tremendous cricketer who can contribute in all aspects of the game.”
In addition to Patel, Ganguly expressed confidence in wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant’s inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad. Pant has recovered well from his recent injuries and has been in impressive form in the IPL, scoring three half-centuries.
“Rishabh will go to the T20 World Cup,” Ganguly asserted. “He’s a surety in the Indian team. He’s a world-class player who can keep, bat, and captain.”
Ganguly acknowledged the competition for the wicketkeeper’s spot, with players like Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, and Dinesh Karthik also in contention. However, he believes Pant’s all-around abilities make him the standout choice.
