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 previously achieved the feat in ODIs, Axar was on th??e verge of 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 saf?e hands, but he surprisingly 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, utt?ered a few words in dis??appointment, 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 e?ffort while 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 Indi??a dominated Bangladesh with the ball, Axar delivered a spell that disarmed the opposition. He had set up a perfect opportunity for a rare ICC Champions Trophy hat-trick, 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 rout??ine catch. However, in a moment of misjudgment, he lunged forward instead of allowing the ball to come to him. T?he 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 disbelief 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 testament to how incredibly rare it is for a bowler to cla??im three wickets in three successive deliveries 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-t??rick.

Also READ: IND vs BAN: Rohit Sharma overtakes Sachin Tendulkar to achieve a spe??cial 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 Sports. His response was a mix of humor and disappointment, showing his calm demeanor desp?ite 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 ach??ievement, 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: Rohi?t Sharma or Virat Kohli? Bollywood actress Sanya Malhotra picks her favourite cric??keter

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India and Bangladesh are 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 unfolde?d 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 the second ball of the over, Axar bowled a flat-length delivery outside off-stump to Bangladesh opener Tanzid Hasan, who attempted to cut it through the off-side but only managed to edge it behind. Wicketkeeper KL Rahul made no mistake in g?rabbing 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 nestling safely in Rahul’s gloves once again. The Indians erupted in cele?bration 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 wel?l-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 perfectly 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, but on the third deliv?ery, 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 B?umrah’s absence from ICC Champions Trophy 2025 leaves M?ehidy Hasan Miraz relieved

India maintains control against Bangladesh

Despite Rohit’s blunder, India remained in ??control, keeping Bangladesh’s batters 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.

Bangladesh were 6??2/5 by the end of the 15th over, Towhid Hridoy (14*) and Jake Ali (15*) battling against the qua??lity Indian bowling attack.

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

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Indian captain Rohit Sharma delivered a masterclass in ODI batting, silencing his critics with a sublime century, his 32nd in ODIs, against England in the second ODI in Cuttack on Sunday (Febr??uary 9).? His innings was a testament to his class, composure, and ability to anchor a chase, as he played a magnificent knock filled with exquisite timing and elegant strokeplay.

Rohit Sharma’s sublime century in India’s series-sealing victory

Leading from the front, Rohit roared back into form and guided India to a comprehensive four-wicket victory, helping the hosts take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. His century, which came off just 76 balls, was a fine blend of patience and aggression, as he dispatched the English bowlers to all parts of the ground. He reached the milestone in emphatic style, stepping down the track and launching Adil Rashid over long-off for a massive six, reaffirming his status as one of India’s most dependable batter?s. His brilliant knock of 119 off 90 deliveries was studded with seven sixes and nine fours, setting the foundation for India’s successf?ul chase.

Rohit’s aggressive approach sets up the chase against England

Opting to bat first, England posted a challenging 304/10 in 49.5 overs, courtesy of crucial contributions from their middle order. Joe Root (69) and Ben Duckett (65) led the charge, while Liam Livingstone (41), Jos Buttler (34) and Harry Brook (31) chipped in with handy cameos. Despite wickets falling at regular intervals, England m??anaged to cross the 300-run mark, giving their bowlers a solid total to defend. However, India’s aggressive start completely shifted the momentum in the chase.

Also READ: Fans erupt as Rohit Sharma lights up Barabati Stadiu??m with a dazzling 32nd century against England in the second ODI

In response, Rohit wasted no time in putting India ahead, launching a brutal assault on the English bowlers from the outset. He raced to his half-century off just 30 balls, stitching together a dominant 136-run opening partnership with Shubman Gill, which put India firmly in the driver’s seat. Gill played a ?fluent knock of 60 off 52 balls before being dismissed, but Rohit carried on his carnage, maintaining a strong scoring rate and ensuring that India remained ahead of the required run rate.

Rohit’s century and key contributions seal the victory

Rohit’s century came in just 76 balls, a knock that perfectly combined powerful hitting with calculated strokeplay. He reached the milestone in spectacular fashion by taking on leg-spinner Rashid, stepping out and launching him over long-off for a six. His dominance over the English attack continued until the 30th over, when Livingstone finally managed to dismiss him for a stunning 119 off 90 balls. At the time of his dismissal, India needed just 85 runs off 122 deliveries, and the middle order ensured there were no hiccups in the chase. Shreyas Iyer (44) and Axar Patel (41) not out played crucial supporting roles, guidi?ng India to victory in 44.3 overs.

With this win, India sealed the series 2-0, reaffirming ?their strength in ODIs and showcasing their batting depth. Rohit’s century not only secured the victory but also sent a strong message ahead of upcoming challenges, proving that the Indian skipper remains a force to be reckoned with in international cricket.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

And he's back with a bang! Cannot keep the hitman quiet for long 🔥 cracker of an innings with the bat doing all the talking 💯 @ImRo45 #INDvsENGODI #IndVSEng

— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) February 9, 2025

//twiter.com/DineshKarthik/status/18886228010301??15420

Rohitaaaaaaaa sharamaaaaaaa is back 🇮🇳 🫡 #indvsEng #INDvsENGODI //t.co/NGRMItzJUB

— Yuzvendra Chahal (@yuzi_chahal) February 9, 2025

Consistency, class, and captaincy rolled into one! 💯🔥 #hitman strikes again. #INDvsENG @ImRo45 👌 //t.co/JYR0LTBEnB

— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) February 9, 2025

To chase 300 plus score is that easy ??
Yes when its #TeamIndia
Opening partnership between @ShubmanGill & @ImRo45 have done a trick & than @akshar2026 with @ShreyasIyer15 took to the winning doors.
Loved the century by Hitman#RohitSharma𓃵 #Gill #INDvsENG pic.twitter.com/EhpkkdhHN9

— Munaf Patel (@munafpa99881129) February 9, 2025

It’s a big relief for Hitman as well as for his fans. This 💯 before the Champions Trophy should be a massive boost for team India 🇮🇳
Well played Ro 👏👏#RohitSharma #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/k2xQzoPJLc

— Vinay Kumar R (@Vinay_Kumar_R) February 9, 2025

Ro-Hit-Man Sharma. Ro-Super-Hit Sharma 🙌

This is such a good sign for 🇮🇳 #INDvsENG pic.twitter.com/J195VXgbO3

— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) February 9, 2025

And 𝐇𝐈𝐓𝐌𝐀𝐍 comes ??clutch in a crucial chase! �??��

Brought up his 3️⃣2️⃣nd ODI 💯, putting 🇮🇳 in a winning position! 💪#PlayBold #ನಮ್ಮRCB #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/4cRxZYd0yz

— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) February 9, 2025

💯/💯 batting display, and the series sealed in style! 💥#INDvENG
📸 : BCCI pic.twitter.com/hINHDMLN3U

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) February 9, 2025

Captain Rohit Sharma wins Player of the match award 👏🏏#Cricket #INDvENG #RohitSharma𓃵 #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/gD0q7n5Qd9

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) February 9, 2025

Also READ: Top 5 oldest debutants f?or India in the ODIs ft. Varun Chakravarthy

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The Indian team is having a fruitful time in the white-ball battle against England. After securing a triumphant win in the T20I series, the hosts also managed to outperform England in the opening ODI. Ahead of the second game in Cuttack, several members of ?the Indian team went to the Jagannath Temple to seek blessings of Lord Jagannath during their stay in Odisha- the home of Lord Jagannath who is know??n amongst his devotees and believers around the world of showering unwavering love to his devotees.

Axar Patel, Washington Sundar and Varun Chakaravarthy visit Jagannath Temple

The Indian team arrived in the iconic state of Odisha after their successful trip to Nagpur where they played the 1st ODI of the 3-match series. As the team gears up for the next encounter against the English side, several members of the I?ndian team visited the iconic ?temple and had a glimpse of the culture and beliefs of the people of Odisha.

Indian all-rounder Axar Patel, spinners Washington Sundar and Varun Chakaravarthy were seen at the iconic temple early in the morning along with heightened security around them. The Indian team was earlier given a grand welcome earlier at the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar. The welcome was star-studded with a traditional dance by the local performers amidst cheer from the cricketing community and a special red carpet rolled by the Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) to greet the Indian team to a hero’s welcome.

Also Read: IND vs ENG: India’s vice-captain Shub??man Gill provides crucial update on Virat Kohli’s injury ahead of 2nd ODI

India aim to seal the series in Cuttack

The Indian team aims to clinch another win and lay their hands on a famous series win at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. However, there are apprehensions for India on several players. The biggest amongst them is whether star Indian batter Virat Kohli will feature in the playing XI for the 2nd ODI. The former Indian skipper was ruled out ??of the opening encounter due to a right knee injury. While the inclusion of the 36-year-old can boost the spirits of the team, it can also potentially disturb the winning combination for the home side. India currently lead the series 1-0.

Also Read: KL Rahul or Rishabh Pant? Former Indian ??batting coach Sanjay Bangar reveals his choice for the England ODIs

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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 slowed it down to just 50 kmph, imparting generous flight and dip to deceive Axar into an ambitious dri?ve. 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 three, restrictin??g? 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 c?omfortably in 38.4 overs. England’s bowlers, including Jofra Archer and Saqib Mahmood, had their moments, but the total proved insufficient. The match highlighted India’s balanced bowling attack and composed batting effort, setting up an exciting remainder of the series.

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

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In a vibrant showcase of national pride, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially unveiled the new Tri-Coloured themed jersey for Team India, just ahead of their much-anticipated three-match ODI series against England. This elegant design, featuring a striking tri-color gradient on the shoulder blades, marks a si?gnificant aesthetic update for the Indian cricket team as they gear up for the forthcoming cricketing challenges.

The Tri-Coloured themed jersey

The BCCI took to their official social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), to reveal the new ODI jersey. The design incorporates the colors of the Indian national flag, symbolizing the team’s representation of the country’s spirit and unity. This move is not just a fashion update but a statement of national pride and identity. The players looked excited and pumped up as they donned the new jersey, featuring a striking tri-color gradient on the shoulder blades.

First ODI in 444 days

The release of the new jersey comes at a pivotal moment for Team India, as they prepare for their first ODI match in 444 days, signaling a return to the format with renewed vigor. This series against England is crucial as it sets the tone for India’s preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Also READ: Will Varun ?Chakravarthy play in the Champions Trophy 2025? Rohit Sharma weighs in

Rohit Sharma’s absence raises eyebrows

The new design was showcased by some of the team’s key players including Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and others, who were seen posing in their fresh looks with bright smiles, indicating team unity and enthusiasm. Notably, the captain, Rohit Sharma, was absent from the initial reveal,?? sparking curio??sity among fans.

New threads 🧵

…And with that – Bright Smiles 😁💙#TeamIndia | #INDvENG | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/Sgs1gG7rvf

— BCCI (@BCCI) February 5, 2025

pic.twitter.com/UU3LxzDw8M

— BCCI (@BCCI) February 5, 2025

pic.twitter.com/8NRqCcOJzo

— BCCI (@BCCI) February 5, 2025

pic.twitter.com/r5XVjAp7If

— BCCI (@BCCI) February 5, 2025

ODI battle to begin in Nagpur

The 3-match ODI series kicks off at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, a venue known for its spin-friendly conditions, which might play into India’s strategy with the inclusion of Varun Chakravarthy. The first ODI is set for February 6, followed by matches in Cuttack and Ahmedabad, spotlighting India’s readiness for both home conditions and international competition.

Also READ: Star spinner added to India’s squad for the ODI series ?against England �?IND vs ENG 2025

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As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season draws closer, the excitement surrounding the tournament has reached fever pitch. Fans and expert??s alike are eager t??o witness the next chapter of this highly anticipated league, where new faces, fresh strategies, and star-studded lineups promise an action-packed season. With the mega auction already behind us, the attention now turns to how the teams will shape up, and which players will lead their franchises to glory.

Delhi Capitals: A strong unit with big names

Delhi Capitals (DC) have undoubtedly assembled a formidable squad for IPL 2025. With a blend of seasoned pros and young talent, the franchise is ready to make its mark. Players like KL Rahul, Mitchell Starc, Tristan Stubbs, and Harry Brook ??add significant depth and firepower to their already impressive lineup. Rahul, with his calm leadership and explosive batting skills, will provide a strong backbone to the team, while the addition of world-class?? players like Starc and Brook further boosts their chances of lifting the coveted IPL trophy.

Also READ: 3 players who can captai??n Delhi Capitals (DC) in the IPL 2??025

Who will lead DC in IPL 2025? Dinesh Karthik answers

Amid the anticipation, a crucial question has emerged—who will captain Delhi in IPL 2025? In a recent show, Dinesh Karthik dropped a major revelation about the leadership choice for the franchise. According to Karthik, it is none other than Axar Patel who will take the reins as Delhi’s captain for the upcoming season.

Although the official announcement from DC is yet to come, Karthik’s statement during Cricbuzz‘s HeyCB with DK show confirmed that Axar, who previously captained in Rishabh Pant’s absence, will?? now take on a full-time leadership rol??e. This exciting development paves the way for Axar to lead a dynamic and talented squad, as the Delhi-based team aims to make a strong push for the title.

“For Axar Patel, all the very best. A good opportunity for him. Third, he is going to be the Delhi Capitals�?captain as well. So here is a good opportunity for him to lead and show the way. He has been doing that for Gujarat as well. So, wish him all the luck,” said Karthik.

Also READ: 3 key reasons wh??y Punjab Kings (PBKS) can win IPL 2025 under Shreyas ?Iyer’s captaincy

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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 th??e cricketing world. This form, combined with his versatility, makes Axar a deserving 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 te?am, Axar�?�s vice-captaincy provides an opportunity to strengthen leadership at multiple levels, creating a robust support system for the team.

Also READ: 5 players wh?o failed to make a cut in India’s T20I squ??ad 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 their leadership under Suryakumar, with Axar as vice-captain.

Following?? the T20Is, the three-match ODI 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 asses??s their readiness 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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