Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) emerged victorious in their IPL 2024 encounter against Delhi Capitals (DC), securing a 7-wicket triumph. Phil Salt’s exceptional performance, with a blistering 68 runs off just 33 deliveries, propelled KKR to victory and solidified their position in the top two of the points table.
Axar Patel emerged as the lone shining light for DC, claiming two wickets and effectively controlling the run rate. However, it was his remarkable delivery that dismissed Salt that garnered widespread acclaim from the cricketing fraternity, including former India opener Navjot Singh Sidhu.
On the opening delivery of the ninth over, Axar employed an arm-ball that deceived Salt. The ball turned sharply from a length, crashing into the stumps and leaving the batsman bewildered. Sidhu, providing commentary, drew comparisons between Axar and the legendary Bishan Singh Bedi. He praised Axar’s ability to outsmart the in-form batter, stating, “This came at the speed of a bullet. Bishan Singh Bedi used to do this very often. To outfox a batsman who was playing like this, sending him back, Axar, wah! (Ek set batsman ko bewakoof banake ghar bhejna… Axar, you beauty) That’s why Axar Patel is selected again and again in the Indian team.”
With just one day remaining before countries announce their squads for the T20 World Cup in June, players from all 10 IPL teams are eager to impress the national selectors. Axar’s name is among those being considered for a place in the squad, given his impressive form with both bat and ball.
According to various reports, India’s squad is expected to be announced on Tuesday, April 30. BCCI secretary Jay Shah will meet with the India selectors in Ahmedabad prior to the announcement. On Sunday, India skipper Rohit Sharma, chief selector Ajit Agarkar, head coach Rahul Dravid, and other BCCI officials held a meeting in New Delhi to discuss the squad.
The selectors face a challenging decision in choosing between Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill as the third opener for the marquee event. Additionally, the bowling fitness of all-rounder Hardik Pandya remains a concern for the selectors.
