India all-rounder Axar Patel has been appointed the vice-captain for the T20I cricket series, a role that brings with it added responsibility. With the T20I format thriving in India, the country has faced challenges in Test cricket, most recently suffering a 1-3 loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. This has sparked questions about the role and performance of the support staff, particularly assistant coaches Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate, who have been under scrutiny by the BCCI. Despite these concerns, Axar Patel has expressed confidence in the current team management and stated that he was not involved in the events surrounding India’s recent tour to Australia.
In a press conference ahead of the five-match T20I series against England, Axar reaffirmed his trust in the support staff. “I wasn’t with the team for the last three months, so I don’t know what happened in Australia, but here the support staff is the same, and we are discussing what we want to do in matches,” he explained. He emphasized the fast-paced nature of T20I cricket, where quick decision-making is crucial. Axar also acknowledged the importance of regular communication with coaches, both batting and bowling, to ensure the team’s strategic direction.
Axar further highlighted the added pressure and responsibility that comes with being vice-captain. He explained that leadership often involves making tough calls and offering honest opinions, a sentiment that was echoed in discussions with T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav and head coach Gautam Gambhir. Axar’s approach reflects the team’s commitment to staying united and focused on their goal as they prepare to face England in the T20I series starting January 22 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
As India takes on England, all eyes will be on Axar’s leadership and his role in guiding the team to success in the fast-paced T20I format.