IND vs SL: "These Are The Games That Will Help Him Step Up To The Fight"- Dinesh Karthik Hails Axar Patel's Knock In 2nd T20I

Dinesh Karthik, the wicketkeeper-batsman for India, praised all-rounder Axar Patel, saying it was thrilling to see him play versus Sri Lanka at the MCA Stadium in Pune. In the second Twenty20 international, Sri Lanka defeated India by 16 runs to tie the three-match series.

Karthik said in an interview with Cricbuzz that India’s never-say-die mentality against Sri Lanka in Pune epitomizes Indian cricket.

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Axar Patel Was Exhilarating To Watch: Dinesh Karthik

“This is the spirit of Indian cricket that we talk about. The never-say-die attitude that they showed required a lot of mental fortitude as the game looked dead and buried,” said Karthik.

The Royal Challengers Bangalore batsman praised Axar Patel for his thrilling performance against Sri Lanka and claimed these two matches were the most interesting he has watched in a while.

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“Surya wasn’t his usual self today, but the kind of innings that he (Axar) played today, especially taking on his match-up Hasaranga was exhilarating to watch. Easily the most entertaining two games we have had in a long time,” Karthik added.

These Are Critical Games For Axar Patel: Dinesh Karthik

He continued by saying that Axar’s inclusion in India’s starting XI for the next ODI World Cup in October will be solidified by performances of this nature.

“If he (Axar) wants to step up and find a place in the World Cup XI, these are the knocks that will be etched in everyone’s minds and these are critical games for him. He would rather want to be in these tough situations and try and get India across the line,” said Karthik.

Axar and Washington Sundar will face off for the position of spin-bowling all-rounder, according to Karthik, and these matches may be advantageous to Axar.

“When the moment comes to decide between Washington Sundar and Axar which will happen at some point in the one-day circuit, these are the games that will help him step up to the fight,” Karthik added.

Also Read: IND vs SL: Rahul Dravid Points At The End Of The Journey For Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma In T20Is

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