IND vs NZ 2021: I Have Never Seen Myself As A White-Ball Specialist - Axar Patel
Published - 28 Nov 2021, 11:32 AM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 01:01 AM
Axar Patel made his ODI debut in 2014 and his T20I debut in 2015. He has also been a regular feature in the IPL, known for his tight bowling and late-order hitting. However, despite having a brilliant first-class record it was only earlier this year that he got to make his Test debut.
The presence of R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja as the premier spinners delayed his Test debut. But he has grabbed the opportunity with both hands – 5 five-wicket hauls in 7 innings, including the latest one against the World Test Champions.
After play on Day 3 in Kanpur, where he bagged his fifth five-fer, Axar Patel made it clear that he doesn’t like being labelled as just a white-ball bowler, and cherishes the opportunity to bowl with the red ball.
“Whenever I have played first-class or India A, I have done well. I have never seen myself as a white ball specialist,” Axar Patel said after play on Day 3.
“It’s all in mind-set as to what you perceive yourself as – a white ball specialist or red ball specialist. I always had the belief that whenever I get a chance I will do well. Obviously, I give credit to team members for having faith in me and I have been able to stand up to their expectations.”
I don’t think about whether my role is a lead one or whether there are senior bowlers around me: Axar Patel
Axar Patel got the chance in his debut series against England when Jadeja was injured. Now after the all-rounder returning, Axar doesn’t mind being the third spinner.
The Gujarat spinner explained that his only focus is on his own bowling, and not on whether he’s the first spinner or third.
“When I have ball in my hand, I just try and see to it that I am enjoying my bowling, trying to read the wicket and understand what’s happening, how it’s behaving and plan accordingly.
“I don’t think about whether my role is a lead one or whether there are senior bowlers around me, I only think about my bowling and what is required to be done in that particular spell,” the 27-year-old added.
India had taken a 63-run lead by end of Day 3 but lost Shubman Gill to Kyle Jamieson. The hosts will be looking to bat New Zealand out on Day 4.
