The intense 30-minute practice session strongly indicates that Axar Patel is gearing up for a much-awaited comeback against Zimbabwe as fans and experts
are eagerly wondering if he will be included in the playing XI for India's absolute must-win T20 World Cup 2026 match against Zimbabwe.
During India's previous match against South Africa in Ahmedabad, Axar was left out of the team, and Washington Sundar was brought in to replace him to use his off-spin against South Africa's left-handed power-hitters. However, this specific strategy failed when fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah quickly dismissed both left-handers Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton in the PowerPlay.
India's assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate explained the management's thought process after the heavy 76-run defeat.
He stated, "We spent so much time deliberating about the XI. I guess the only way that it sort of didn't play into our hands is if we did have the ideal start like we did today, with getting Quinton and Rickelton out so early. We were kind of looking at match-ups more in the middle. And then obviously, someone has to give way".
The massive defeat has made India's next two Super Eight games must-win encounters with Zimbabwe featuring two left-handed batters in their top order with opener Tadiwanashe Marumani and Ryan Burl at number 4 which leaves the management with a tough choice: stick to the match-up strategy with Washington or bring back Axar's reliable bowling. The sudden unavailability of Rinku Singh might even allow India to play both Washington and Axar, although bringing in Kuldeep Yadav is another alternative.
Why Axar is Crucial for India
Putting complex strategies aside, Axar has been highly effective in this tournament, taking six wickets in just three games with a brilliant economy rate of 6.63 and an average of 12.16. His style of bowling directly at the stumps makes him a constant wicket-taking threat. Moreover, the pitch at Chepauk is expected to be a batting paradise, making Axar's tight, accurate bowling even more valuable.
Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir has previously made it clear that a player's actual impact matters more than mere numbers.
Gambhir said, "We don't look at averages and stats and all that stuff. We look at who can deliver more at that number. And Axar has done fabulously well. There will always be people talking about it, but I think that's the way we want to go in future as well".
