Axar Patel received the golden chance to become India’s main left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder in T20 World Cup 2022. He was not the initial choice for the playing XI, but when Ravindra Jadeja was ruled out of the mega event due to an injury, the team management gave Axar that spot.
Despite having a great record in bilateral cricket, Axar Patel failed to deliver the goods when it mattered the most. He played five matches for the team, scoring nine runs at a strike rate of 100. With the ball, Patel took only three wickets. He is known to be economical with the ball, but in T20 World Cup 2022, his economy rate was 8.63.
Most importantly, Patel could not impress much in the big games, which is why the selectors may look to replace him now. Here are three potential candidates who can take his spot:
1. Krunal Pandya can replace Axar Patel
Hardik Pandya has done wonders for India in T20I cricket this year. His brother Krunal could also do the same if given a chance. He has proven in the IPL that he ups his game when the big stage arrives. A player like Krunal Pandya could help India end their championship drought in ICC events.
2. Rahul Tewatia can replace Axar Patel
Another option available with the Indian team is Rahul Tewatia. The Gujarat Titans star has the ability to remain ice cool in the most intense situations. He can hit any bowler for a six and can bowl leg-spin as well. Tewatia could be an asset for Team India.
3. R Sai Kishore
If the team management is willing to compromise a bit on batting, R Sai Kishore can be the best replacement for Axar Patel. Kishore can build pressure on the opposition with his tight bowling. He has spent much time with Jadeja and Dhoni at CSK. Also, he won IPL 2022 earlier this year with GT.
