In the T20 World Cup 2024 final matchup with South Africa, Axar Patel was moved up to bat at number four. The southpaw scored an important 47 runs off of 31 deliveries. Although he saved the squad from danger, it did not guarantee him a place in the starting lineup. The all-rounder was back batting at number eight against Sri Lanka in the opening Twenty20 International, but it had little effect on his performance as he quickly struck 10* runs off five deliveries to help India score 213 runs.
Regarding his overall growth as a player, Axar Patel mentioned that he has improved his skills by batting under duress.
He mentioned how it gave him more confidence, and his game reflects it. In addition to amassing 10* runs, Axar also took two vital wickets of Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Perera, who were both appearing dangerous in Pallekele. The all-round player discussed his desire to carry on with the same intensity as well as the lessons he has learnt from playing under duress.
“You gain some confidence when you play cricket for India on a regular basis and perform well under duress. Not only that, but you always gain confidence and grow from it. It’s not a given that you’ll perform flawlessly under pressure; you could falter as well. However, those circumstances make you realise that there are things you could have done differently, and I’ve learnt a lot from that, especially in the past year,” reported Axar as saying.
Therefore, when I perform well in such circumstances, my confidence increases, and I don’t become bogged down or think “oh I need to do this, I need to do that” when those circumstances arise again. I think it’s definitely helping me that I concentrate a lot more on my strengths. Your confidence grows as long as you continue to perform effectively. I performed well in the World Cup a month ago, and I’m carrying that confidence, which is paying off,” he went on.
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Sri Lanka had a strong start to the second innings, needing to chase 214 runs. After Nissanka and Kusal Mendis put together an 84-run partnership, it appeared as though the hosts would win by 43 runs. However, the Indian bowlers pulled off an incredible comeback. In the three-match series, the Men in Blue now led 1-0 after that.
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