India started their ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 campaign with a dominant six-wicket victory over Bangladesh at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. However, the match had its share of drama as skipper Rohit Sharma’s dropped catch denied Axar Patel a historic moment.

Axar Patel’s near hat-trick opportunity

In the ninth over of Bangladesh’s innings, left-arm spinner Axar was in red-hot form. He dismissed opener Tanzid Hasan and veteran Mushfiqur Rahim off consecutive deliveries, setting himself up for a rare ODI hat-trick. With only four Indian bowlers having previou?sly achieved the feat in ODIs, Axar was on the verge o??f history.

On the hat-trick ball, Jaker Ali edged it straight to Rohit at first slip. It seemed like a straightforward chance for the Indian captain, known for his safe hands, but he surprising??ly spilled the catch, letting the opportunity slip away.

Rohit Sharma’s reaction and apology to Axar

Rohit’s immediate reaction showed his frustration—he slammed the turf, uttered a few words in disappointment, and turned to Axar with folded hands in a gesture of apology. The missed catch was a moment of agony, not just for Rohit but for the entire Indian team and fans who recognized how special a hat-trick in the ?Champions Trophy could have been.

Speaking after the match, Rohit took full responsibility for the mistake. He admitted: “That was an easy catch, I should have taken that with the standards I have set for myself.”

Attempting to lighten the mood, he added, “I may take Axar for dinner tomorrow.”

Also READ: IND vs BAN: ‘He had dropped it’ – Axar Patel breaks silence after Rohit Sharma denies him a Champions Trophy 2025 hat-trick

India’s clinical chase seals victory

Despite Rohit’s drop, Bangladesh posted a competitive total, with Jaker making the most of his lifeline and scoring 68, supported by a solid innings from Towhid Hridoy. However, India comfortably chased down the target, with Rohit himself contributing at the top of the order. Though the major contribution came from Shubman Gill, ?who smashed a brilliant century to take India over the finish ??line.

??After the win, Rohit praised the team’s overall effort whi??le acknowledging Bangladesh’s fight.

“The way Jaker and Hridoy batted, credit to them—they put us under some pressure. But our bowlers did the job early on, and that’s what matters,” Rohit added further.

Also READ: Fans erupt as Shubman Gill’s blazing ton propels India to crucial win over Bangladesh in Champions Trophy 2025

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Axar Patel experienced a whirlwind of emotions within seconds during India’s opening match against Bangladesh in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. From sheer elation to crushing disappointment, the left-arm spinner found himself at the center of a moment that will be talked about for years. Axar was on the verge of achieving a remarkable milestone – his first-ever hat-trick in any format of cricket- but Rohit Sharma’s dropped catch turned the moment into heartbreak.

As India dominated Bangladesh with the ball, Axar delivered a spell that disarmed the opposition. He had set up a perfect oppo?rtunity for a rare ICC Champions Trophy hat-tric?k, but fate had other plans. While missed catches are a part of the game, this drop carried more weight because of its historical significance and the potential record that slipped away.

The pivotal moment: A Champions Trophy hat-trick that wasn’t

As Axar ran in for his hat-trick ball, he knew he was on the brink of something special. He had just dismissed two Bangladesh batters in back-to-back deliveries, setting the stage for what could have been a career-defining moment. His final target was Jaker Ali, and Axar executed his plan to perfection. He tossed the ball up invitingly, drawing Jaker ?forward in defense. Just as the batter thought he had it covered, the ball turned sharply, took the outside edge, and flew towards the slip cordon.

Positioned at slip, Rohit was expected to complete a routine catch. However, in a moment of misjudgment, he lunged forward instead of allowing the ball to come to him. The ball dipped sharply, slipped through his fingers, and fell to the ground. Rohit himself tumbled forward in frustration, fully aware of what had just happened. Axar, who had already started to celebrate, turned back in dis?belief as the opportunity for a historic hat-trick slipped away in an instant.

The Champions Trophy, despite being a marquee tournament for over two decades, has witnessed just one hat-trick in its entire history. That honor belongs to Jerome Taylor of the West Indies in 2006, a te??stament to how incredibly rare it is for a bowler to claim three wickets in three successive deliver?ies in this competition. Had Axar achieved the milestone, he would have etched his name into cricketing folklore as the first Indian to take a Champions Trophy hat-trick.

Also READ: IND vs BAN: Rohit Sharma overtakes ??Sachin Tendulkar to achieve a special milestone in ODIs �Champions Trophy 2025

Axar Patel’s reaction: From celebration to disappointment

After Bangladesh was bowled out for 228, Axar was asked about the missed hat-trick opportunity during a post-match interaction with Star Sp?orts. His response was a mix of humor and disappointment, showing his calm demeanor despite the unfortunate outcome.

“Honestly, I started celebrating when the ball went to Rohit Sharma. But then I realized he had dropped it. What to do? Sabke saath hota hai (happens with everybody). When it happened, I did not react much as I just turned back and went away,” Axar said.

His words reflected his sportsman spirit, but it was clear that the moment had stung. A bowler’s first hat-??trick is always a defining achievement, and to have it slip away due to a dropped?? catch was a cruel twist of fate. However, Axar remained composed, choosing to focus on the team’s overall performance rather than dwelling on his personal disappointment.

Also READ: Rohit Sharma or Virat Kohli? Bollywo?od actress Sanya Malho??tra picks her favourite cricketer

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India and Bangladesh ?a??re locking horns in the second match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Bangladesh, after winning the toss, opted to bat first, looking to set a challenging total against a formidable Indian bowling attack. However, the moment that stole the spotlight was Axar Patel’s near hat-trick, which was ultimately denied due to a costly drop by Indian captain Rohit Sharma.

Axar Patel strikes twice in two balls

The dramatic sequence unfold?ed in the eighth over of the innings. Left-arm spinner Axar Patel, brought into the attack, made an instant impact, striking twice in consecutive deliveries.

On t?he second ball of the over, Axar bowled a flat-length delivery outside off-stump to Bangladesh opener Tanzid Hasan, who attempted to cut it th?rough the off-side but only managed to edge it behind. Wicketkeeper KL Rahul made no mistake in grabbing the catch, but Axar seemed unsure whether there was any contact with the bat. However, the umpire’s delayed but firm decision sent Tanzid back to the pavilion for 25 off 25 balls.

With confidence soaring, Axar delivered another brilliant ball on the very next delivery, this time to Mushfiqur Rahim. The veteran Bangladeshi batter leaned forward to defend, but the ball spun away slightly, taking the shoulder of his bat before nestli??ng safely in Rahul’s gloves once again. The Indians erupted in celebration as Mushfiqur departed for a golden duck.

Hat-trick ball drama

With two wickets in two balls, Axar stood on the brink of a hat-trick. The pressure was on new batter Jaker Ali as he took guard. Axar bowled a well-flighted delivery just outside off, drawing Jaker into a defensive push. The ball took the outside edge and flew towards first slip, where Rohit Sharma was perfectl??y positioned.

However, in a shocking moment, the Indian skipper dropped what appeared to be a routine catch. As the ball popped out of his hands, Rohit hit the ground multiple times in frustration, fully aware that he had just denied Axar a dream hat-trick. Axar, who was visibly disappointed, could only accept his captain’s apology as the golden opportunity slipped away.

Axar Patel picks up two wickets in two balls, b?ut on the third delivery, Rohit Sharma drops a catch.??

– Axar misses his hat-trick.#ChampionsTrophy2025 #INDvBAN pic.twitter.com/uOnycEWaZW

— Huzaifa (@Huzaifa_Says11) February 20, 2025

Rohit Sharma drops Axar Patel's hat-trick ball! Have to feel for axar. Totally deserved a hat trick there. #IndvsBan #INDvsBAN pic.twitter.com/Cv9PomRuMO

— Akshat Om (@AkshatOM10) February 20, 2025

Also WATCH: Jasprit Bumrah’s absence from ICC Champions T??rophy 2025 leaves Mehidy Hasan Miraz relieved

India maintains control against Bangladesh

Despite Rohit’s blunder, India remained in control, keeping Bangladesh’s bat?ters in check with disciplined bowling and sharp fielding. Axar continued to bowl with precision, while the rest of the Indian attack ensured that Bangladesh struggled to build momentum.

Bangl??adesh were 62/5 by the end of the 15th over, Towhid Hridoy (14*) and Jake Ali (15*) battling against the quality Indian bowling attack.

Also READ: Pakistan’s opener Fakhar Zaman ruled out the Champions Trophy 2025; replacement announced

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Axar Patel was in fine touch, counterattacking England’s bowlers with a fluent 52 off 47 balls however, Adil Rashid produced a moment of brilliance to break his resistance in the 1st ODI between India and England.

Adil Rashid’s magical leg-break ends Axar Patel’s crucial knock

Bowling from around the wicket, Rashid masterfully slowe???d it down to just 50 kmph, imparting generous flight and dip to deceive Axar into an ambitious drive. The ball landed precisely in the rough, gripping the surface before spinning sharply past the bat, threading its way through the narrowest of gaps to crash into the stumps. Axar, anticipating a more conventional turn, was left stunned as the ball deviated viciously, leaving him no chance of recovery.

The moment the bails were dislodged, the brilliance of Rashid’s skill became evident – an absolute gem of a delivery that would make any leg-spinner envious. England, knowing the significance of the breakthrough, remained composed, but the quality of the dismissal spoke volumes. Axar’s fluent 52 off 47, featuring six boundaries and a towering six, came to an abrupt halt, shifting the momentum in England’s favour.

Here’s the video:

Adil Rashid 🙌#cricket #INDvENG #Adilrashid pic.twitter.com/B7y7RaLS5i

— Aman (@Amanriz78249871) February 6, 2025

Also WATCH: Phil Salt powerfully thrashes debutant?? Harshit Rana in a 26-run over during the 1st ODI

India outclass England with four-wicket victory in Nagpur ODI

India took a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series against England with a convincing four-wicket victory in Nagpur. England, after electing to bat first, started aggressively as Phil Salt played a quickfire 43 off 26 balls, but his dismissal triggered a collapse. Ben Duckett added 32, while Jos Buttler steadied the innings with a hard-fought 52. Jacob Bethell contributed 51, but England struggled against India’s disciplined bowling attack. Debutant Harshit Rana impressed with three wickets, while Ravindra Jadeja also claimed th??ree, restricting England to 248 in 47.4 overs.

In response, India lost Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal early, but Shubman Gill anchored the chase with a well-compiled 87 off 96 balls. Shreyas Iyer accelerated the innings with a blistering 59 off 36, ensuring India remained ahead in the chase. Axar’s crucial 52 off 47 balls provided stability in the middle order, while KL Rahul fell cheaply. Despite a late breakthrough by Rashid, Hardik Pandya and Jadeja guided India home comfortably in 38.4 overs. England’s bowlers, including Jofra Archer and Saqib Ma?hmood, had their moments, but the total proved insufficient. The mat?ch highlighted India’s balanced bowling attack and composed batting effort, setting up an exciting remainder of the series.

Also WATCH: Phil Salt falls vict??im to a comical run-out during the 1st ODI

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India are set to host England in their first home series of the 2025, a highly anticipated clash between two cricketing powerhouses. The Jos Buttler-led England team will play a five-match T20I series followed by three ODIs against India, providing an exciting start to 2025 for cricket enthusiasts. This series holds significant importance for both teams as they prepare for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which begins on February 19.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has revealed the squad for the upcoming series, scheduled from January 22 to February 2. However, the major talking point has been the unexpected leadership change within the team. Axar Patel has been named vice-captain, a move that sees him preferred over Hardik Pandya, who was widely regarded as a leadership frontrunner. This decision adds another chapter to India’s evolving leadership narrative.

3 reasons why Axar Patel was preferred over Hardik Pandya as India’s vice-captain

1. Hardik Pandya’s injury concerns

Hardik’s history of injuries has been a persistent issue throughout his career. Despite his undeniable talent and leadership potential, his frequent fitness challenges have made it difficult for the team management to rely on him consistently in a leadership role. Hardik missed significant matches during crucial periods, which affected the team’s plans. With the demanding nature of modern cricket, particularly in a high-stakes T20I series, the selectors may have opted for a more dependable choice in Axar, who has proven his durability and ability to deliver in crunch situations consistently.

2. Axar Patel’s stellar form and all-round contributions

Axar has emerged as one of India’s most reliable all-rounders in recent times, cementing his place in both the international and domestic circuit. His performances during the 2024 T20 World Cup, where he scored 92 runs and claimed nine wickets, demonstrated his ability to excel under pressure. Axar’s crucial knock of 47 runs in the final showcased his temperament and match-winning capabilities. Additionally, his consistent Indian Premier League (IPL) performances, including being retained by Delhi Capitals (DC) for INR 16.50 crore, highlight his growing stature in the cricketing world. This form, combined with his versatility, makes Axar a deserv?ing candidate to take on a leadership role.

3. Strategic vision for leadership stability

The decision to appoint Axar as vice-captain aligns with the team management’s long-term vision of grooming reliable leaders. Axar’s calm and composed demeanor, both on and off the field, is a valuable trait that ensures stability in the team’s decision-making process. His ability to adapt to different match scenarios and perform in high-pressure games makes him an ideal candidate for a leadership role. Furthermore, with Suryakumar Yadav already leading the team, Axar’s vice-captaincy provides an opportunity to strengthen leadership at multi?ple levels, creating a robust support system for the team.

Also READ: 5 ?players who failed to make a cut in India’s T20I squad for England series

T20I series between India and England: A test of depth and adaptability

The T20I series, scheduled to take place in five iconic venues – Kolkata, Chennai, Rajkot, Pune, and Mumbai – will test the adaptability and depth of both squads. These venues present diverse playing conditions, from spin-friendly pitches to high-scoring surfaces, making the series a perfect platform for teams to finalize their combinations. For England, it will be an opportunity to fine-tune their T20 strategy under Jos Buttler’s captaincy, while India will look to solidify the?ir leadership under Suryakumar, with Axar as vice-captain.

Following the T20Is, the three-match O??DI series will serve as a crucial preparation phase for India ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy. As the host nation for the prestigious tournament, India will aim to identify their ideal playing XI and address any lingering concerns in their squad. England, on the other hand, will use the ODIs to assess their rea??diness for the subcontinent conditions they will encounter in Pakistan and the UAE during the Champions Trophy.

Also READ: IND vs ENG – Why Yash Dayal has not been selected in India squad for England T20Is?

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In the third T20I between South Africa and India at SuperSport Park in Centurion, Axar Patel provided one of the standout moments of the match, taking a sensational catch to dismiss South Africa’s middle-order batter, David Miller. This moment proved to b?e one of the game-changers in the match.

A game-changing moment: Axar Patel’s stunning catch

The key moment came in the 16th over of South Africa’s chase, when Hardik Pandya bowled a short delivery to Miller. Miller, looking to accelerate the scoring, launched into a powerful pull sh??ot that seemed destined for a six. However, Axar had other plans. Leaping high into the air, he clung onto the ball overhead in a brilliant display of athleticism and concentration, making a stunning catch that left the crowd in awe. Miller, starting to look dangerous, departed for 18 off 18 balls, and his dismissal seemed to shif??t the momentum in India’s favour.

Here is the video:

//twitter.com/Kira??nkumar324/status/185677066?6617541042

It wasn’t just his fielding that stood out for Axar with the ball, he also played an instrumental role in India’s victory. The all-rounder made a significant contribution by dismissing Tristan Stubbs, the Player of the Match in the previous T20I. Stubbs, who had been a key figure for South Africa, was sent packing by Axar, and his wicket proved to be one of the most crucial in India’s eventual win. Axar’s all-round performance, combining a stunning catch with a vital wicket, was a defining factor in India’s success on the night.

Also READ: WAC?A to be under cover for India’s intra squad? game ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

India takes a 2-1 lead in the four-match series over South Africa 

Earlier in the game, India were asked to bat first in the game, and they set a massive target for South Africa. Scoring a commanding 219/6 in their 20 overs, India’s innings was anchored by an exceptional knock from Tilak Varma. The young batter played a blistering inn??ings of 107* off just 56 balls, hitting 8 fours and 7 sixes. Varma’s fireworks at the crease were the backbone of India’s total, and his innings proved to be one of the hig?hlights of the match.

Chasing a mammoth target of 220, South Africa fought valiantly but ultimately fell short, finishing their innings at 208/7. Marco Jansen played a blazing knock, scoring 54 off just 17 balls with a monstrous strike rate of 317.65, however, Jansen’s efforts weren’t enough, and he was dismissed by Arshdeep Singh, who was? India’s highest wicket-taker with 3 wickets on the night. Despite Jansen’s heroics, the requir??ed run rate proved too much for South Africa, and they lost the match by 11 runs, with this victory, India gained a 2-1 lead in the four-match series.

Also RE??AD: SA vs IND: Netizens go gaga over Tilak Varma’s blistering ton against South Africa in 3rd T2?0I

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has revealed the Indian squad for the much-anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-2025 against Australia, which is set to kick off on November 22. The four-match Test series promises to be an intense contest, with India aiming to retain the trophy on Australian soil. ?While the squad features some familiar faces, there are a few notable exclusions that have raised eyebrows.

Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel miss out on the Test squad

Left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who recently played in the first Test against New Zealand, has been left out of the Test squad for the Australia tour. Similarly, all-rounder Axar Patel has also been excluded from the Test setup, though he has secured a spot in the T20I squad for India’s upcoming series against South Africa.

Reason behind Kuldeep and Axar’s absence

The BCCI clarified that Kuldeep’s exclusion was due to an injury? concern rather than a strategic choice. He has been dealing with a chronic problem in his left groin, which has been affecting his performance. As a result, after the conclusion of the ongoing Test series against New Zealand, Kuldeep has been sent to the B?CCI Centre of Excellence for a long-term treatment plan to address and resolve this injury, making him unavailable for selection for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

“Kuldeep Yadav was unavailable for selection for the tour of Australia since he has been referred to the BCCI Centre of Excellence after the end of the ongoing Test series against New Zealand for long term resolution of his chronic left groin issue,” read a statement from the BCCI.

Also READ: BCCI announce India’s Test squ?ad for Australia tour; Kuldeep Yadav misses out

As for Axar, the BCCI did not provide an official reason for his omission from the Test squad. Reports suggest that Axar may have fallen down the pecking order, with selectors opting for Washington Sundar, who is expected to play a key role in the spin department alongside Ravindra Jadeja. If India chooses to field two spinners, Sundar could even be considered ahead of veteran Ravichandran Ashwin, further limitin??g opportunities for Axar in the Test setup.

Axar has been included in the T20I squad?? for the South Africa series starting on November 8 in Durban. However, the decision to leave him out of the Test squad indicates that the team management is looking for a more balanced combination for the tour down under.

Expectations from India in the BGT 2024-25

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is always a fiercely competitive series, and this time it is expected to be no different. India will be keen to defend their title and continue their dominance over Australia. With key players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jadeja in the squad?, the team will be banking on their experience and form to deliver strong perfor?mances.

Al??so READ: BCCI announce India’s T20I squad for South Africa tour, includes 3 uncapped players

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Indian cricketer Axar Patel is stepping into a new chapter of his life: fatherhood. On October 7, the 30-year-old all-rounder shared the joyous news on social media that his wife, Meha Patel, is expecting their first child. The couple radiated happiness in a heartwarming video, celebrating this significant milestone together. Axar’s caption, â€?em>A great joy is coming,â€?qu??ickly attracted a wave of congratulatory messages from fans and fellow cricketers alike.

A joyous announcement from Axar Patel

The announcement came after Axar had hinted at exciting news during his appearance on ‘The Great Indian Kapil Show�on Netflix. He teased viewers with vague suggestions that something significant was on the horizon, igniting speculation among fans. When he finally revealed the pregnancy news, it was met with overwhelming excitement and joy from supporters who had been eagerly awaiting confirmatio?n.

Also WATCH: Rohit Sharma’s h??eartwarming birthday wish for?? a female fan in Mumbai

Balancing personal and professional life

Despite the personal celebration, Axar has had a busy year in cricket. Though he being rested for the ongoing T20I series against Bangladesh. This break allows him to focus on his family during this special time. However, he is expected to rejoin the squad for the upcoming Test series against New Zealand starting October 16 in Bengaluru. If India opts for a three-spinner strategy, Axar’s skills will be invaluable to the team.

Axar and Meha’s romantic saga

Axar and Meha’s journey together has been nothing short of enchanting. The couple got engaged in early 2022 and tied the knot in a private ceremony in Vadodara, Gujarat, on January 26, 2023. Their love story is marked by deep affection and mutual support; Axar has often referred to Meha as his “best friend.â€?In sharing their wedding news, he described their special day as “the most magical dayâ€?/em> of his life.