"We've to take harsh decisions": Axar Patel's blunt take on becoming new India vice-captain

India National Cricket Team all-rounder Axar Patel talked about being appointed as the vice-captain of the Team India in the T20Is. He said that the role comes with extra responsibility as it forces them to make harsh decisions and give honest opinions.

India National Cricket Team all-rounder Axar Patel was recently appointed as the vice-captain of the team for the upcoming five-match T20I series against England National Cricket Team. This will be the first time that he has been included in the leadership group of the National team.

India all-rounder Axar Patel will be acting as a deputy to Suryakumar Yadav in the five-match T20I series against England

India National Cricket Team all-rounder Axar will be acting as a deputy to Suryakumar Yadav in the five-match T20I series against England National Cricket Team. The series between the teams is all set to start on Wednesday (22nd February) at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

Patel was rewarded with the role after his consistent performances for the team in the shortest format of the game. The all-rounder has played a huge role for the team in the T20Is with bat and ball and also was the key performer for the team in the T20 World Cup 2024.

The upcoming T20I series against the England National Cricket Team will be a great opportunity for him to take his game to the next level. The all-rounder would want to carry on his good form and help his team win the five-match T20I series against Jos Buttler-led side.

Sometimes we have to take harsh decisions and give honest opinions and that has been the discussion with Suryakumar Yadav and Gautam Gambhir - Axar Patel

Patel, while talking about being the vice-captain, said that the leadership role comes with added responsibility. He also talked about his conversation with Suryakumar Yadav and Gautam Gambhir. Speaking to reporters ahead of the first T20I, he said:

"Being vice-captain comes with added responsibility. Sometimes we have to take harsh decisions and give honest opinions and that has been the discussion with Suryakumar Yadav and Gautam Gambhir."

My focus remains on what I can contribute when I play and when I don't - Axar Patel

Axar Patel also talked about his experience, saying that he knows what his strengths are and he only focuses on that. He said that he doesn't think about his selection as his focus stays on how he can contribute. He added:

"I have played all three formats. I know what I can do and what my strengths are. I just focus on what I can do. I don't think much when I am not picked or don't play. My focus remains on what I can contribute when I play and when I don't."

Axar Patel has a great record against England and would be keen to carry on that. He also has been picked in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad and the series will act as a great preparation for him.

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