‘Don’t feel the need to prove anything to anyone’- Axar Patel exudes confidence in himself ahead of England series

In an eight-match white-ball series (three ODIs and five T20Is), Team India will host England in order to be ready for the next Champions Trophy. The selection committee lead by Ajit Agarkar recently unveiled the 15-man teams for the corresponding series. Axar Patel was selected as Suryakumar Yadav’s deputy and vice-captain for the T20I series.

Among the people listed in both squads was Axar Patel. Before the series’ first Twenty20 International, the Gujarat all-rounder addressed the media about his role on the team and his temperament.

“Yes, a transitional period is approaching, but in the end, the captain and selectors make the decision. There’s no need for me to prove anything to anyone. My goal is to continuously improve and carry out the role that has been allocated to me. “If I do well, my position on the team will be taken care of itself,” Axar Patel said during the Monday, January 20 pre-series press conference.

As a national representative, he went into additional detail about his team-centric way of thinking. The cricket player added that he will continue to receive opportunities as long as he is included in the starting lineup for every game.

“I tell myself that I’ve participated in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. I’m more concerned about performing when I get the chance than I am with proving myself or getting chosen. I don’t feel under any obligation to earn a position. Axar continued, “It’s always about the team combination and whether there’s a place for me.”

More about my areas of contribution: Axar Patel

The all-rounder, who plays for the Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League, also discussed his priorities while working hard before a series.

“When it comes to selection, I consider my contributions more than my deservingness of a spot on the team. Since just 15 players can make the squad and no one’s spot is guaranteed, it’s a natural part of being a cricket player, said Axar.

The famous cricketer also emphasised the responsibilities of the coaching team and their promptness in resolving problems and providing answers.

Having been away from the squad for the last two and a half months, I don’t have a lot of knowledge about what transpired in Australia. The support crew has always taken the same strategy, giving the required inputs according to batting and bowling positions. Because T20 moves quickly, it’s more important to make wise choices and comprehend designated roles. In this respect, communication has been extremely explicit,” he said.

Notably, the South Africa tour was Axar’s most recent appearance for the national team. He has since played for Gujarat in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali tournaments. He will also go to Dubai with the Indian side for the 2025 Champions Trophy following the England series.