Axar Patel is likely to miss the Asia Cup 2023 Final due to multiple niggles, dealing a blow to the Indian team’s preparations. His injuries occurred while batting against Bangladesh the previous night.
To cover for his absence, India has brought in young spinner Washington Sundar, who will join the team in Sri Lanka for the Asia Cup 2023 Final on September 17 in Colombo.
It’s worth noting that Sundar is part of India’s Asian Games squad under Ruturaj Gaikwad’s leadership. After serving the senior men’s team for the Asia Cup 2023 Final, he will return to Bengaluru to rejoin the camp.
Axar Patel’s injury troubles began during India’s last Super Four match against Bangladesh. Although the severity of his injuries remains unclear, it seems he will have to sit out of the prestigious Asia Cup 2023 Final.
Against Bangladesh, Axar played a crucial innings of 42 runs off 34 deliveries, featuring three boundaries and two sixes. He kept India’s hopes alive until his dismissal by Mustafizur Rahman, leading to India’s six-run loss.
During his time at the crease, Axar endured a couple of injuries. Firstly, he hurt his hand while trying to save his wicket after missing a delivery. Later, while attempting a lofted shot, the ball struck him on the hand, causing discomfort and requiring medical attention.
— No-No-Crix (@Hanji_CricDekho) September 15, 2023
If Axar Patel is ruled out of the Asia Cup 2023 Final, it’ll be a huge setback for Team India. His bowling and batting provide crucial depth.
Washington Sundar, if selected for the final against Sri Lanka, can trouble left-handed batters with his off-spin. He’s also a decent batsman.
India’s updated squad for the Asia Cup 2023 includes Rohit Sharma(c), Virat Kohli, Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul(w), Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Mohammed Shami, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Prasidh Krishna, Tilak Varma, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar.
