R Ashwin's ODI comeback during the ongoing Australia home series has&nbsp;made heads turn. Ever since India lost the services of Axar Patel due to injury concerns during the Asia Cup, India recalled the senior off-spinner back into the ODI setup just before the ODI World Cup at home, which kicks off on October 5. Ashwin has impressed in the opening two games, with four wickets, and former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar feels the wily off-spinner has sealed his World Cup spot.&nbsp;

Sharing his thoughts on the Ashwin versus Axar debate, Little Master Gavaskar said,&nbsp;"The way he has bowled in the last two matches, I think he has made the cut for the World Cup squad. If there is even a hint of doubt on Axar Patel's fitness, whether he'll be completely fit for the entire World Cup; because any injury can be a recurring one and he needs to be careful. If the team management think they can't take that chance with Axar because it is the World Cup and everyone wants their squad to be 100 percent fit; so if there are any doubts then Ashwin could make a comeback."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-is-r-ashwin-a-backup-for-cwc-23-rohit-sharma-spills-the-beans-before-3rd-odi-640093">India vs Australia: Is R Ashwin a backup for CWC '23? Rohit Sharma spills the beans before 3rd ODI</a>

“He has bowled exceptionally well in the last 3-4 overs he bowled in Mohali, then the way he utilised the carrom ball in Indore. So if there are any doubts on Axar, Ashwin will come back into the team," Gavaskar added.

It is to be noted that all the participating teams have to announce their final 15 players for the CWC '23 edition before September 28 (Thursday).

Ashwin, 37, isn't part of Rohit Sharma-led India's playing XI in the third and final ODI versus Australia in Rajkot on Wednesday (September 27).

Axar, the spin-bowling all-rounder, has not been completely ruled out of the World Cup. Axar, who is dealing with&nbsp;a left quadriceps strain, is expected to return for the CWC '23 warm-up games.&nbsp;

After the Australia series, India play two warm-up games -- on September 30 and October 3 respectively -- before their World Cup opener versus Australia in Chennai on October 8.

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R Ashwin's ODI comeback during the ongoing Australia home series has made heads turn. Ever since India lost the services of Axar Patel due to injury concerns during the Asia Cup, India recalled the senior off-spinner back into the ODI setup just before the ODI World Cup at home, which kicks off on October 5.

R Ashwin's ODI comeback during the ongoing Australia home series has made heads turn. Ever since India lost the services of Axar Patel due to injury concerns during the Asia Cup, India recalled the senior off-spinner back into the ODI setup just before the ODI World Cup at home, which kicks off on October 5. Ashwin has impressed in the opening two games, with four wickets, and former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar feels the wily off-spinner has sealed his World Cup spot. Sharing his thoughts on the Ashwin versus Axar debate, Little Master Gavaskar said, "The way he has bowled in the last two matches, I think he has made the cut for the World Cup squad. If there is even a hint of doubt on Axar Patel's fitness, whether he'll be completely fit for the entire World Cup; because any injury can be a recurring one and he needs to be careful. If the team management think they can't take that chance with Axar because it is the World Cup and everyone wants their squad to be 100 percent fit; so if there are any doubts then Ashwin could make a comeback." Also read: India vs Australia: Is R Ashwin a backup for CWC '23? Rohit Sharma spills the beans before 3rd ODI “He has bowled exceptionally well in the last 3-4 overs he bowled in Mohali, then the way he utilised the carrom ball in Indore. So if there are any doubts on Axar, Ashwin will come back into the team," Gavaskar added. It is to be noted that all the participating teams have to announce their final 15 players for the CWC '23 edition before September 28 (Thursday). Ashwin, 37, isn't part of Rohit Sharma-led India's playing XI in the third and final ODI versus Australia in Rajkot on Wednesday (September 27). Axar, the spin-bowling all-rounder, has not been completely ruled out of the World Cup. Axar, who is dealing with a left quadriceps strain, is expected to return for the CWC '23 warm-up games. After the Australia series, India play two warm-up games -- on September 30 and October 3 respectively -- before their World Cup opener versus Australia in Chennai on October 8. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘He has made the cut’: Sunil Gavaskar backs R Ashwin in India's CWC '23 squad, with Axar Patel unfit

India beat Australia by 99 runs (DLS method) to win the second and penultimate ODI and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three ODIs, with the final game on Wednesday (September 28) in Rajkot. R Ashwin, who returned to the ODI format after his last ODI in early 2022, has made a strong case to be included in India's final 15 for the upcoming CWC '23 edition.&nbsp;However, former Australia captain Aaron Finch has made a bold statement. Finch believes Ashwin -- who has a strong chance to replace an unfit Axar Patel from the World Cup squad -- won't make the cut and might be there as a mentor for the current group.&nbsp;

Ashwin last played an ODI in early 2022 during India's tour of South Africa. However, an injury to spin-bowling all-rounder Axar Patel during Asia Cup 2023, reopened the doors for Ashwin in the shorter format. In the two ODIs versus Australia, he has accounted for four wickets so far and, thus, has made a strong statement with Axar ruled out of the third and final game in Rajkot. Axar, who is dealing with a left quadriceps strain, is expected to return for the CWC '23 warm-up games. If he returns, it will be interesting to see if Ashwin remains part of India's World Cup plans.

Nonetheless, Finch doesn't think Ashwin will be part of the upcoming ICC event. Speaking on Star Sports, he said, "I think he (Ashwin) might struggle to make it to the final 15, but as somebody who has played so much cricket, I think the rest of the group that is with the Indian team for this current series against Australia, they could learn so much about big gameplay."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ab-de-villiers-picks-this-indian-batsman-to-be-leading-run-scorer-at-world-cup-terms-ashwins-selection-smart-639627">AB de Villiers picks THIS Indian batsman to be leading run scorer at World Cup, terms Ashwin's selection SMART</a>

<h2>'Wouldn't be surprised if he's there as a mentor'</h2>

"Because Ashwin is somebody that stands up in big games, whether it's a Test match or a T20 game, he has done it all throughout his career. So I wouldn't be surprised if he's there at the moment as a mentor around the group, but I don't see him making that last 15, unfortunately," Finch, who led Australia to T20 World Cup glory in 2021, further added.

India and Australia will lock horns in the third and final ODI in Rajkot on Wednesday (September 27). All CWC '23 participating teams need to announce their final 15 prior to September 28. Hence, it will be interesting to see if Axar regains fitness and what the future has in store for Ashwin in the format.&nbsp;

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India beat Australia by 99 runs (DLS method) to win the second and penultimate ODI and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three ODIs, with the final game on Wednesday (September 28) in Rajkot.

India beat Australia by 99 runs (DLS method) to win the second and penultimate ODI and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three ODIs, with the final game on Wednesday (September 28) in Rajkot. R Ashwin, who returned to the ODI format after his last ODI in early 2022, has made a strong case to be included in India's final 15 for the upcoming CWC '23 edition. However, former Australia captain Aaron Finch has made a bold statement. Finch believes Ashwin -- who has a strong chance to replace an unfit Axar Patel from the World Cup squad -- won't make the cut and might be there as a mentor for the current group. Ashwin last played an ODI in early 2022 during India's tour of South Africa. However, an injury to spin-bowling all-rounder Axar Patel during Asia Cup 2023, reopened the doors for Ashwin in the shorter format. In the two ODIs versus Australia, he has accounted for four wickets so far and, thus, has made a strong statement with Axar ruled out of the third and final game in Rajkot. Axar, who is dealing with a left quadriceps strain, is expected to return for the CWC '23 warm-up games. If he returns, it will be interesting to see if Ashwin remains part of India's World Cup plans. Nonetheless, Finch doesn't think Ashwin will be part of the upcoming ICC event. Speaking on Star Sports, he said, "I think he (Ashwin) might struggle to make it to the final 15, but as somebody who has played so much cricket, I think the rest of the group that is with the Indian team for this current series against Australia, they could learn so much about big gameplay." Also read: AB de Villiers picks THIS Indian batsman to be leading run scorer at World Cup, terms Ashwin's selection SMART 'Wouldn't be surprised if he's there as a mentor' "Because Ashwin is somebody that stands up in big games, whether it's a Test match or a T20 game, he has done it all throughout his career. So I wouldn't be surprised if he's there at the moment as a mentor around the group, but I don't see him making that last 15, unfortunately," Finch, who led Australia to T20 World Cup glory in 2021, further added. India and Australia will lock horns in the third and final ODI in Rajkot on Wednesday (September 27). All CWC '23 participating teams need to announce their final 15 prior to September 28. Hence, it will be interesting to see if Axar regains fitness and what the future has in store for Ashwin in the format. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Don’t see him in India's CWC '23 squad, might be there as mentor: Ex-Australia skipper on R Ashwin

Axar Patel has been ruled out of the third and final ODI between India and Australia to be held in Rajkot on Wednesday (September 27). The spin-bowling all-rounder,&nbsp;who's dealing with a left quadriceps strain, missed the Asia Cup 2023 final after&nbsp;getting&nbsp;injured&nbsp;during the Super Four game versus Bangladesh. However, he is expected to return for the CWC 2023 warm-up games.&nbsp;

With Axar remaining unfit, R Ashwin's hopes of entering the CWC squad has increased further. Ashwin&nbsp;made a comeback in the ODI format after a long gap during the Australia series. His last ODI appearance was in early 2022, but the wily off-spinner has claimed four wickets in two games and thus, voices continue to grow for his late inclusion.

Nonetheless, as per a report in Cricbuzz, Axar is expected to return for the World Cup warm-up games. This could put Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee&nbsp;in a serious dilemma as they have to name the final 15-player World Cup squad by September 27.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-was-in-total-control-aakash-chopra-lauds-brilliant-shreyas-iyer-after-his-105-vs-australia-639441">'He was in total control': Aakash Chopra lauds 'brilliant' Shreyas Iyer after his 105 vs Australia</a>

As of now, no replacement has been announced for Axar for the third and final ODI. The final encounter will see the return of regulars such as captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah whereas the likes of Shubman Gill and all-rounder Shardul Thakur have been rested.&nbsp;

<section itemprop="articleBody">
It remains to be seen if Axar retains his spot or if Ashwin will make the cut eventually. The India-Australia three&nbsp;ODIs is led by the home side after they achieved an unassailable lead with a 99-run win (DLS method) in the second game&nbsp;on Sunday (September 24) in Indore.&nbsp;

Talking about the CWC warm-up games, India will play England (on September 30 in Guwahati) and the Netherlands (on October 03 in&nbsp;Thiruvananthapuram) before their tournament opener versus Australia in October 08 in Chennai. The upcoming ICC event begins on October 05 in Ahmedabad with defending champions England taking on New Zealand.
</section>

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Axar Patel has been ruled out of the third and final ODI between India and Australia to be held in Rajkot on Wednesday (September 27). The spin-bowling all-rounder, who's dealing with a left quadriceps strain, missed the Asia Cup 2023 final after getting injured during the Super Four game versus Bangladesh.

Axar Patel has been ruled out of the third and final ODI between India and Australia to be held in Rajkot on Wednesday (September 27). The spin-bowling all-rounder, who's dealing with a left quadriceps strain, missed the Asia Cup 2023 final after getting injured during the Super Four game versus Bangladesh. However, he is expected to return for the CWC 2023 warm-up games. With Axar remaining unfit, R Ashwin's hopes of entering the CWC squad has increased further. Ashwin made a comeback in the ODI format after a long gap during the Australia series. His last ODI appearance was in early 2022, but the wily off-spinner has claimed four wickets in two games and thus, voices continue to grow for his late inclusion. Nonetheless, as per a report in Cricbuzz, Axar is expected to return for the World Cup warm-up games. This could put Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee in a serious dilemma as they have to name the final 15-player World Cup squad by September 27. Also read: 'He was in total control': Aakash Chopra lauds 'brilliant' Shreyas Iyer after his 105 vs Australia As of now, no replacement has been announced for Axar for the third and final ODI. The final encounter will see the return of regulars such as captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah whereas the likes of Shubman Gill and all-rounder Shardul Thakur have been rested. It remains to be seen if Axar retains his spot or if Ashwin will make the cut eventually. The India-Australia three ODIs is led by the home side after they achieved an unassailable lead with a 99-run win (DLS method) in the second game on Sunday (September 24) in Indore. Talking about the CWC warm-up games, India will play England (on September 30 in Guwahati) and the Netherlands (on October 03 in Thiruvananthapuram) before their tournament opener versus Australia in October 08 in Chennai. The upcoming ICC event begins on October 05 in Ahmedabad with defending champions England taking on New Zealand. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Axar Patel ruled out of third ODI vs Australia, to return for CWC '23 warm-up ties: Report

The Indian Cricket Team is closing in on announcing their final 15 for the home World Cup, starting October 5, but they wish to tick off some boxes before that. Following India’s impressive five-wicket win over Australia in the first of the three ODIs in Mohali on Friday, the team management has their eyes set on two players – Shreyas Iyer and Ravichandran Ashwin, whom they wish to see performing in the second ODI in Indore on Sunday.

On a good flat deck in Mohali, the returning Shreyas Iyer failed to leave any impact, getting out cheaply (run-out) on just three.&nbsp;

With a lack of runs, his chances of breaking into the final XI for India’s first game against Australia in CWC look bleak, considering how well Ishan Kishan grabbed the opportunity in Iyer’s absence in the games before.

Spin veteran Ravi Ashwin will also be under pressure to deliver on a high-scoring surface in Indore as his numbers on his return game in the ODI jersey weren’t as effective. Should Axar Patel remain injured and unavailable, Ashwin will be in line to earn a shocking call-up.&nbsp;

The young prodigy Washington Sundar, who was called up at the last moment ahead of the Asia Cup final, is also in contention for that spot in the side for the World Cup.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhir-reveals-indias-ultimate-challenge-at-cwc-2023-picks-this-team-as-toughest-opponent-638911">Gautam Gambhir reveals India’s ultimate challenge at CWC 2023, picks THIS team as toughest opponent</a>

Before India and Australia play their best XI in the third and final ODI in Rajkot (on Wednesday, September 27), both Ashwin and Sundar are likely to be tested in Indore.&nbsp;

Shardul Thakur, who leaked 78 runs in the first ODI, will be under pressure to perform and better his numbers in the remaining two games to ensure he still starts ahead of Mohammed Shami in the World Cup 2023, as the team management indicated earlier.

With all three finger spinners, including Ravindra Jadeja, likely to start in Indore, ace spinner Kuldeep Yadav could be rested.&nbsp;

India might also rest Jasprit Bumrah and bring in Asia Cup final hero Mohammed Siraj to share the new ball with Mohammed Shami in the second ODI.

<h2>Team management happy with SKY’s 50</h2>

Having backed India’s numero uno T20I batter, Suryakumar Yadav, in the ODIs, the move paid dividends as the right-handed batter scored a fifty in Mohali and helped India come out of a crunch situation during the middle orders. As per the latest reports, the management is said to have given SKY a good 50-ball window to play and settle down, which he made great use of.

His inning in Mohali has given confidence to him and the management heading into the World Cup 2023.

India lead the three-match series 1-0.

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The Indian Cricket Team is closing in on announcing their final 15 for the home World Cup, starting October 5, but they wish to tick off some boxes before that. Following India’s impressive five-wicket win over Australia in the first of the three ODIs in Mohali on Friday, the team management has their eyes set on two players – Shreyas Iyer and Ravichandran Ashwin, whom they wish to see performing in the second ODI in Indore on Sunday.

The Indian Cricket Team is closing in on announcing their final 15 for the home World Cup, starting October 5, but they wish to tick off some boxes before that. Following India’s impressive five-wicket win over Australia in the first of the three ODIs in Mohali on Friday, the team management has their eyes set on two players – Shreyas Iyer and Ravichandran Ashwin, whom they wish to see performing in the second ODI in Indore on Sunday. On a good flat deck in Mohali, the returning Shreyas Iyer failed to leave any impact, getting out cheaply (run-out) on just three. With a lack of runs, his chances of breaking into the final XI for India’s first game against Australia in CWC look bleak, considering how well Ishan Kishan grabbed the opportunity in Iyer’s absence in the games before. Spin veteran Ravi Ashwin will also be under pressure to deliver on a high-scoring surface in Indore as his numbers on his return game in the ODI jersey weren’t as effective. Should Axar Patel remain injured and unavailable, Ashwin will be in line to earn a shocking call-up. The young prodigy Washington Sundar, who was called up at the last moment ahead of the Asia Cup final, is also in contention for that spot in the side for the World Cup. ALSO READ: Gautam Gambhir reveals India’s ultimate challenge at CWC 2023, picks THIS team as toughest opponent Before India and Australia play their best XI in the third and final ODI in Rajkot (on Wednesday, September 27), both Ashwin and Sundar are likely to be tested in Indore. Shardul Thakur, who leaked 78 runs in the first ODI, will be under pressure to perform and better his numbers in the remaining two games to ensure he still starts ahead of Mohammed Shami in the World Cup 2023, as the team management indicated earlier. With all three finger spinners, including Ravindra Jadeja, likely to start in Indore, ace spinner Kuldeep Yadav could be rested. India might also rest Jasprit Bumrah and bring in Asia Cup final hero Mohammed Siraj to share the new ball with Mohammed Shami in the second ODI. Team management happy with SKY’s 50 Having backed India’s numero uno T20I batter, Suryakumar Yadav, in the ODIs, the move paid dividends as the right-handed batter scored a fifty in Mohali and helped India come out of a crunch situation during the middle orders. As per the latest reports, the management is said to have given SKY a good 50-ball window to play and settle down, which he made great use of. His inning in Mohali has given confidence to him and the management heading into the World Cup 2023. India lead the three-match series 1-0. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pressure on Shreyas Iyer, Ravichandran Ashwin to deliver in Indore ODI as India look to seal CWC final 15

A day after Team India won&nbsp;Asia Cup 2023,&nbsp;the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday (September 18)&nbsp;announced&nbsp;India's squad for their next assignment, the&nbsp;three-match ODI series versus Australia at home. KL Rahul will lead in the first two games whereas Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will feature only in&nbsp;the series finale. The squad sees the return of R Ashwin.&nbsp;The series opener will be held on Friday (September 22) in at the IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali.

The squad has been shared in two parts -- for the opening two games and the series decider. Interestingly, a lot of regulars have been rested with Rahul to lead the second-stringed side in the initial two ODIs. With Axar Patel picking up an injury during the Asia Cup, R Ashwin and Washington Sundar are part of all the three ODIs whereas Ruturaj Gaikwad -- who is set to lead India in the Asian Games starting on September 23 -- is&nbsp;part of the Rahul-led squad.

Meanwhile, Rohit, regular vice-captain Hardik Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav and&nbsp;Kohli will come back for the third and final ODI. In Hardik's absence, Ravindra Jadeja has been named as Rahul's deputy.

For First two ODIs vs Australia:&nbsp;KL Rahul (C &amp; WK), Ravindra Jadeja (Vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna.

For third and final ODI vs Australia:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya, (Vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel (if fit), Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj.

The likes of Shreyas Iyer, Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav will be eager to make the most of their chances in the upcoming 50-over games, with main focus on the former's fitness. Meanwhile, Ashwin and Sundar will also be desperate to force the Indian team management to make some last-minute changes in the CWC 2023 squad -- which can be done by all teams until September 28 -- with Axar injured. The latter has, however, been added for the third ODI (subject to fitness).&nbsp;

Mohali and Indore will host the first two games&nbsp;on September 22 and 24,&nbsp;respectively. The series finale will take place in Rajkot&nbsp;on September 27 (Wednesday).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-kohli-or-bumrah-pak-great-wasim-akram-names-who-will-be-rohit-led-indias-main-weapon-in-cwc-2023-637142">Not Kohli or Bumrah! Pak great Wasim Akram names who will be Rohit-led India's main weapon in CWC 2023</a>

Recently, Cricket Australia also named a strong squad for the upcoming India series. Pat Cummins and Steve Smith have&nbsp;marked their&nbsp;return after missing the just-concluded South Africa series, in the African nation (which the Aussies lost 2-3).

Australia squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa

It is to be noted that the last India-Australia ODIs was held early this year in India, when Steve Smith &amp; Co. won 2-1. If India win the series, they will enter the World Cup as the No. 1 ranked side.

The series is India's last before the CWC 2023 edition. The mega event kicks off in Ahmedabad, India on October 5 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand.

India will meet Australia in their tournament openers on October 8 in Chennai.

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A day after Team India won Asia Cup 2023, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday (September 18) announced India's squad for their next assignment, the three-match ODI series versus Australia at home.

A day after Team India won Asia Cup 2023, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday (September 18) announced India's squad for their next assignment, the three-match ODI series versus Australia at home. KL Rahul will lead in the first two games whereas Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will feature only in the series finale. The squad sees the return of R Ashwin. The series opener will be held on Friday (September 22) in at the IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. The squad has been shared in two parts -- for the opening two games and the series decider. Interestingly, a lot of regulars have been rested with Rahul to lead the second-stringed side in the initial two ODIs. With Axar Patel picking up an injury during the Asia Cup, R Ashwin and Washington Sundar are part of all the three ODIs whereas Ruturaj Gaikwad -- who is set to lead India in the Asian Games starting on September 23 -- is part of the Rahul-led squad. Meanwhile, Rohit, regular vice-captain Hardik Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav and Kohli will come back for the third and final ODI. In Hardik's absence, Ravindra Jadeja has been named as Rahul's deputy. For First two ODIs vs Australia: KL Rahul (C & WK), Ravindra Jadeja (Vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna. For third and final ODI vs Australia: Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya, (Vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel (if fit), Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj. The likes of Shreyas Iyer, Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav will be eager to make the most of their chances in the upcoming 50-over games, with main focus on the former's fitness. Meanwhile, Ashwin and Sundar will also be desperate to force the Indian team management to make some last-minute changes in the CWC 2023 squad -- which can be done by all teams until September 28 -- with Axar injured. The latter has, however, been added for the third ODI (subject to fitness). Mohali and Indore will host the first two games on September 22 and 24, respectively. The series finale will take place in Rajkot on September 27 (Wednesday). Also read: Not Kohli or Bumrah! Pak great Wasim Akram names who will be Rohit-led India's main weapon in CWC 2023 Recently, Cricket Australia also named a strong squad for the upcoming India series. Pat Cummins and Steve Smith have marked their return after missing the just-concluded South Africa series, in the African nation (which the Aussies lost 2-3). Australia squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa It is to be noted that the last India-Australia ODIs was held early this year in India, when Steve Smith & Co. won 2-1. If India win the series, they will enter the World Cup as the No. 1 ranked side. The series is India's last before the CWC 2023 edition. The mega event kicks off in Ahmedabad, India on October 5 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand. India will meet Australia in their tournament openers on October 8 in Chennai. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

BCCI announces India squad for Australia ODIs: Rohit, Kohli to feature in series finale, R Ashwin returns

Former India cricketer Mohammad&nbsp;Kaif has voiced his opinion on the inclusion of Ravichandran Ashwin for the upcoming ODI series against Australia as the spin master looks for a potential entry into the World Cup squad. Ashwin, on Tuesday, was selected in India’s squad for the upcoming three-match series against Australia as they look for a potential backup to Axar Patel. The left-arm bowling all-rounder was injured in the final Super Four contest of the Asia Cup against Bangladesh and consequently missed the summit clash against Sri Lanka.

<h2>Kaif opines on Ashwin</h2>

"If Axar hadn't been injured then we wouldn't have seen this move and Ashwin would have never been in the scene. Now Axar has suffered a strain injury and that takes time to recover from. No matter what they say he will be back in a week but such injuries take at least 2-3 weeks to recover from. That is why they went for the experience in Ashwin. And remember, there is no comparison between Ashwin and Sundar. He has 900 wickets (712) across formats,” Kaif said&nbsp;in a conversation with Star Sports.

The Indian team will have to look for reinforcements after Axar was not available for the Asia Cup final while he also misses out on the Australia series. The Indian team management will have another week to decide the final World Cup squad before the deadline of September 27. Ashwin’s inclusion in the squad though has raised eyebrows, having not played ODI cricket for more than 18 months. He last played for India in January 2022 against South Africa.

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<h2>Ashwin’s time frame</h2>

Ashwin has been an integral part of the Test side but has been hardly seen taking part in white-ball international cricket. However, like the 2022 T20 World Cup where he came in as a surprise, Ashwin will hope for the same in the ODI World Cup as well. He will have three matches to impress the Indian team management while competition from Washington Sundar could also affect his potential involvement in the World Cup squad.

The three-match ODI series will start on Friday, September 22 with a near fully-fit Australia squad ready to make a statement. The Aussies will be led by returning Pat Cummins while they will also have the services of Mitchell Starc and Steven Smith. Travis Head remains the only player from the World Cup squad not available due to injury.

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Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has voiced his opinion on the inclusion of Ravichandran Ashwin for the upcoming ODI series against Australia as the spin master looks for a potential entry into the World Cup squad.

Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has voiced his opinion on the inclusion of Ravichandran Ashwin for the upcoming ODI series against Australia as the spin master looks for a potential entry into the World Cup squad. Ashwin, on Tuesday, was selected in India’s squad for the upcoming three-match series against Australia as they look for a potential backup to Axar Patel. The left-arm bowling all-rounder was injured in the final Super Four contest of the Asia Cup against Bangladesh and consequently missed the summit clash against Sri Lanka. Kaif opines on Ashwin "If Axar hadn't been injured then we wouldn't have seen this move and Ashwin would have never been in the scene. Now Axar has suffered a strain injury and that takes time to recover from. No matter what they say he will be back in a week but such injuries take at least 2-3 weeks to recover from. That is why they went for the experience in Ashwin. And remember, there is no comparison between Ashwin and Sundar. He has 900 wickets (712) across formats,” Kaif said in a conversation with Star Sports. The Indian team will have to look for reinforcements after Axar was not available for the Asia Cup final while he also misses out on the Australia series. The Indian team management will have another week to decide the final World Cup squad before the deadline of September 27. Ashwin’s inclusion in the squad though has raised eyebrows, having not played ODI cricket for more than 18 months. He last played for India in January 2022 against South Africa. ALSO READ | Star Brazilian footballer to visit India's Kolkata before Durga Puja in October, find itinerary details Ashwin’s time frame Ashwin has been an integral part of the Test side but has been hardly seen taking part in white-ball international cricket. However, like the 2022 T20 World Cup where he came in as a surprise, Ashwin will hope for the same in the ODI World Cup as well. He will have three matches to impress the Indian team management while competition from Washington Sundar could also affect his potential involvement in the World Cup squad. The three-match ODI series will start on Friday, September 22 with a near fully-fit Australia squad ready to make a statement. The Aussies will be led by returning Pat Cummins while they will also have the services of Mitchell Starc and Steven Smith. Travis Head remains the only player from the World Cup squad not available due to injury. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Mohammad Kaif opines on Ravi Ashwin's potential wildcard entry for World Cup, 'if Axar hadn't been injured...'

Following India’s greatest Asia Cup win in Colombo, Captain Rohit Sharma provided the latest update on the injury status of Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel. While Iyer remained out of contention since appearing in the first game against Pakistan on September 2 due to back spasms, all-rounder Patel got ruled out of the final after he tore his quadriceps during the Bangladesh tie in Super Four.

Talking about Iyer, Rohit revealed the middle-order batter is 99% fit, but because he didn't tick off some parameters ahead of the final, he wasn’t included in the XI for the summit clash. Rohit added Iyer has recovered and will return to the side for the Australia series beginning September 22.

"I know what's happening with Shreyas. He was not available for this game [the final]. There were certain parameters that were kept for him to tick off. I think today he completed most of it. I would say 99% he should be okay as of now. But he looks good. He batted, he fielded for long hours before we came today, and he was on the ground. So he's looking good at this point in time. So I don't think it's a worry for us," Rohit said during the post-match presentation.

When asked about Axar Patel, Rohit said it's a matter of ten days or so before he attains full fitness. With September 28 kept as a deadline date for all teams to list out their final CWC 2023 squad, India has about 11 days to take a call on Patel’s future.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/5th-odi-south-africa-clinch-series-decider-vs-australia-by-122-runs-as-markram-jansen-star-for-hosts-636926">5th ODI: Marco Jansen, Markram star for hosts as South Africa beat Australia by 122 runs, clinch series</a>

Rohit also confirmed for at least the first two ODIs against Australia, Axar will remain out of contention for selection.

"Axar... I'm not sure. You know he had a small tear. Looks like maybe a week or 10 days, I don't know," Rohit said.

"We just have to wait and see how that injury progresses. Because every individual is different, some guys recover quickly. I'm hoping with Axar that's the case. We'll wait and see what happens with him. I'm not too sure whether he'll be okay to play against Australia in the first two games at home. But we'll wait and see,” the Indian captain added.

Meanwhile, for the final, Washington Sundar joined the Indian Team, travelling straight from Bengaluru, where he was attending the camp for the Asian Games. Sundar was straightaway roped into the XI in place of Patel, given the history of Colombo pitch assisting the spinners.

"Honestly, that injury to Axar happened very late in the night, and then we had to call a few guys to see where they're at. Washy was available, so we had to get him to come in and play the role and perform the job for us. Luckily, he was with the squad for the Asian Games in Bangalore. He was training, he was bowling. He was cricket-fit, he was spending a lot of time on the field. So we had to get him,” Rohit added.

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Following India’s greatest Asia Cup win in Colombo, Captain Rohit Sharma provided the latest update on the injury status of Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel. While Iyer remained out of contention since appearing in the first game against Pakistan on September 2 due to back spasms, all-rounder Patel got ruled out of the final after he tore his quadriceps during the Bangladesh tie in Super Four.

Following India’s greatest Asia Cup win in Colombo, Captain Rohit Sharma provided the latest update on the injury status of Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel. While Iyer remained out of contention since appearing in the first game against Pakistan on September 2 due to back spasms, all-rounder Patel got ruled out of the final after he tore his quadriceps during the Bangladesh tie in Super Four. Talking about Iyer, Rohit revealed the middle-order batter is 99% fit, but because he didn't tick off some parameters ahead of the final, he wasn’t included in the XI for the summit clash. Rohit added Iyer has recovered and will return to the side for the Australia series beginning September 22. "I know what's happening with Shreyas. He was not available for this game [the final]. There were certain parameters that were kept for him to tick off. I think today he completed most of it. I would say 99% he should be okay as of now. But he looks good. He batted, he fielded for long hours before we came today, and he was on the ground. So he's looking good at this point in time. So I don't think it's a worry for us," Rohit said during the post-match presentation. When asked about Axar Patel, Rohit said it's a matter of ten days or so before he attains full fitness. With September 28 kept as a deadline date for all teams to list out their final CWC 2023 squad, India has about 11 days to take a call on Patel’s future. ALSO READ: 5th ODI: Marco Jansen, Markram star for hosts as South Africa beat Australia by 122 runs, clinch series Rohit also confirmed for at least the first two ODIs against Australia, Axar will remain out of contention for selection. "Axar... I'm not sure. You know he had a small tear. Looks like maybe a week or 10 days, I don't know," Rohit said. "We just have to wait and see how that injury progresses. Because every individual is different, some guys recover quickly. I'm hoping with Axar that's the case. We'll wait and see what happens with him. I'm not too sure whether he'll be okay to play against Australia in the first two games at home. But we'll wait and see,” the Indian captain added. Meanwhile, for the final, Washington Sundar joined the Indian Team, travelling straight from Bengaluru, where he was attending the camp for the Asian Games. Sundar was straightaway roped into the XI in place of Patel, given the history of Colombo pitch assisting the spinners. "Honestly, that injury to Axar happened very late in the night, and then we had to call a few guys to see where they're at. Washy was available, so we had to get him to come in and play the role and perform the job for us. Luckily, he was with the squad for the Asian Games in Bangalore. He was training, he was bowling. He was cricket-fit, he was spending a lot of time on the field. So we had to get him,” Rohit added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rohit Sharma drops latest update on Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel as India get ready for Aussie series

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan feels India will need Axar Patel's batting at No. 8 in the forthcoming ODI World Cup, which kicks off in India on October 5. Axar is currently out of action&nbsp;after suffering a left quadriceps strain during the just-concluded Asia Cup 2023 edition, won by Rohit Sharma-led India on Sunday (September 17) in Colombo.

India had a good run in Asia Cup 2023. They were tested on many occasions but romped past Sri Lanka in the final to win by 10&nbsp;wickets after Mohammed Siraj's 6 for 21 demolished the Lankans for a mere 50 in 15.2 overs. Later, India chased down the score with 10 wickets and 263&nbsp;balls to spare.

While there were&nbsp;plenty of positives for Team India, some injury concerns remain in their preparations for CWC 2023. With Shreyas Iyer's back issues persisting, Axar's injury is also a cause of concern.

Irfan feels Axar will be vital to India's chances as his batting is needed at No. 8.

"He got hit in two or three places, so we don't know how serious it is. However, he is an extremely fit guy, which means he might recover quicker and it's not that he is a very aged player. It is extremely necessary for the Indian team to get him fit and come back. I feel India will need his batting at No. 8 because he has shown form on Sri Lankan pitches where it is slightly difficult to bat," Pathan said during a discussion on Star Sports.

Axar suffered the injury during India's close loss to Bangladesh in the Super Four stage on Friday (September 15).

During India's tricky 266-run chase versus the Bangla Tigers, Axar kept India's hopes alive -- after centurion Shubman Gill's departure (121) -- with a fine 42 before falling in the penultimate over. His batting has improved significantly, across formats, in the last one year and, hence, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. will hope for his quick recovery.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-kohli-or-bumrah-pak-great-wasim-akram-names-who-will-be-rohit-led-indias-main-weapon-in-cwc-2023-637142">Not Kohli or Bumrah! Pak great Wasim Akram names who will be Rohit-led India's main weapon in CWC 2023</a>

Asked about Axar's&nbsp;likely replacement if the spin-bowling all-rounder fails to recover before CWC 2023's commencement, Piyush Chawla -- also part of the same discussion -- made his choice known.&nbsp;"If Axar Patel doesn't get fit, we see Washington Sundar only in his place because once he came, he straightaway played in the final of the Asia Cup. It means the team have shown a lot of confidence in him, so Washington Sundar."

Axar is likely to remain out of India's upcoming three-match ODI series versus Australia, at home, which starts on September 22 (Friday) in Mohali.

If not all the games, he is expected to be out for the opening two encounters.

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Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan feels India will need Axar Patel's batting at No. 8 in the forthcoming ODI World Cup, which kicks off in India on October 5.

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan feels India will need Axar Patel's batting at No. 8 in the forthcoming ODI World Cup, which kicks off in India on October 5. Axar is currently out of action after suffering a left quadriceps strain during the just-concluded Asia Cup 2023 edition, won by Rohit Sharma-led India on Sunday (September 17) in Colombo. India had a good run in Asia Cup 2023. They were tested on many occasions but romped past Sri Lanka in the final to win by 10 wickets after Mohammed Siraj's 6 for 21 demolished the Lankans for a mere 50 in 15.2 overs. Later, India chased down the score with 10 wickets and 263 balls to spare. While there were plenty of positives for Team India, some injury concerns remain in their preparations for CWC 2023. With Shreyas Iyer's back issues persisting, Axar's injury is also a cause of concern. Irfan feels Axar will be vital to India's chances as his batting is needed at No. 8. "He got hit in two or three places, so we don't know how serious it is. However, he is an extremely fit guy, which means he might recover quicker and it's not that he is a very aged player. It is extremely necessary for the Indian team to get him fit and come back. I feel India will need his batting at No. 8 because he has shown form on Sri Lankan pitches where it is slightly difficult to bat," Pathan said during a discussion on Star Sports. Axar suffered the injury during India's close loss to Bangladesh in the Super Four stage on Friday (September 15). During India's tricky 266-run chase versus the Bangla Tigers, Axar kept India's hopes alive -- after centurion Shubman Gill's departure (121) -- with a fine 42 before falling in the penultimate over. His batting has improved significantly, across formats, in the last one year and, hence, Rohit Sharma & Co. will hope for his quick recovery. Also read: Not Kohli or Bumrah! Pak great Wasim Akram names who will be Rohit-led India's main weapon in CWC 2023 Asked about Axar's likely replacement if the spin-bowling all-rounder fails to recover before CWC 2023's commencement, Piyush Chawla -- also part of the same discussion -- made his choice known. "If Axar Patel doesn't get fit, we see Washington Sundar only in his place because once he came, he straightaway played in the final of the Asia Cup. It means the team have shown a lot of confidence in him, so Washington Sundar." Axar is likely to remain out of India's upcoming three-match ODI series versus Australia, at home, which starts on September 22 (Friday) in Mohali. If not all the games, he is expected to be out for the opening two encounters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Team India will need Axar Patel's batting at No. 8 in CWC 2023, feels Irfan Pathan

With ICC ODI World Cup 2023 just days out from the start, India suffered a huge blow with all-rounder Axar Patel getting injured in the last Super Four match against Bangladesh. Axar, who hit 42 in the match and almost took India home, has been replaced by Washington Sundar in India's Playing XI for the Asia Cup final.

The left-arm spinner has 'left quadriceps strain sustained during India's Super Four match against Bangladesh on Friday,' said Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in a release while giving update about him. While Indian opener Shubman Gill said that Axar's injury is not serious, veteran spinner Ravichandra Ashwin also made a comment.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-batting-pain-free-after-taking-cortisone-injection-for-injury-ahead-of-india-odis-and-world-cup-636800">Steve Smith batting 'pain-free' after taking cortisone injection for injury ahead of India ODIs and World Cup</a>

“I have been playing for the last 14-15 years for Team India. I have had my great moments. I have had my fair share of failures too. But I have tattooed Indian cricket close to my heart. If they require my service even tomorrow, I will be ready and will give my 100 per cent,” said Ashwin during a conversation on his YouTube channel.

India have two more spinners in World Cup squad in Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav. While announcing the squad, chief selector Ajit Agarkar had said that they wanted a off-spinner in the team and hence Yuzvendra Chahal couldn't make the cut. With Axar now injured, there's an outside chance that Ashwin might get considered for the World Cup&nbsp;

There's, however, enough time for Axar before the World Cup actually starts on October 5. India, who are playing Sri Lanka in Asia Cup final on September 17, are also scheduled to play Australia in a three-match ODI series which starts on September 22. After that India will play two warm-up games as well before starting their World Cup campaign on October 8 against Australia.

The last date to make changes to the team without the International Cricket Council's (ICC) permission is September 28.

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With ICC ODI World Cup 2023 just days out from the start, India suffered a huge blow with all-rounder Axar Patel getting injured in the last Super Four match against Bangladesh.

With ICC ODI World Cup 2023 just days out from the start, India suffered a huge blow with all-rounder Axar Patel getting injured in the last Super Four match against Bangladesh. Axar, who hit 42 in the match and almost took India home, has been replaced by Washington Sundar in India's Playing XI for the Asia Cup final. The left-arm spinner has 'left quadriceps strain sustained during India's Super Four match against Bangladesh on Friday,' said Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in a release while giving update about him. While Indian opener Shubman Gill said that Axar's injury is not serious, veteran spinner Ravichandra Ashwin also made a comment. Also Read: Steve Smith batting 'pain-free' after taking cortisone injection for injury ahead of India ODIs and World Cup “I have been playing for the last 14-15 years for Team India. I have had my great moments. I have had my fair share of failures too. But I have tattooed Indian cricket close to my heart. If they require my service even tomorrow, I will be ready and will give my 100 per cent,” said Ashwin during a conversation on his YouTube channel. India have two more spinners in World Cup squad in Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav. While announcing the squad, chief selector Ajit Agarkar had said that they wanted a off-spinner in the team and hence Yuzvendra Chahal couldn't make the cut. With Axar now injured, there's an outside chance that Ashwin might get considered for the World Cup There's, however, enough time for Axar before the World Cup actually starts on October 5. India, who are playing Sri Lanka in Asia Cup final on September 17, are also scheduled to play Australia in a three-match ODI series which starts on September 22. After that India will play two warm-up games as well before starting their World Cup campaign on October 8 against Australia. The last date to make changes to the team without the International Cricket Council's (ICC) permission is September 28. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin on India's ODI World Cup chances after Axar Patel injury

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially ruled out Axar Patel from the Asia Cup 2023 finale against Sri Lanka on Sunday, September 17. The blow comes after Axar had sustained a hamstring niggle and was hit multiple times on his wrist. Washington Sundar, already in Colombo is likely to play in his place on Sunday in a wildcard entry. The Indian team will be particularly aware of the Axar situation as the ODI World Cup is less than a month away.

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🚨 NEWS: Washington Sundar replaces Axar Patel 
 
Mr. Axar Patel has been ruled out of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2023</a> final against Sri Lanka due to a left quadriceps strain sustained during India's Super Four match against Bangladesh on Friday. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> 
 
Details 🔽<a href="https://t.co/CNZ2DDlBBa">https://t.co/CNZ2DDlBBa</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1703084957776904515?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Axar ruled out</h2>

"Mr. Axar Patel has been ruled out of the Asia Cup final against Sri Lanka due to a left quadriceps strain sustained during India's Super Four match against Bangladesh on Friday."

"The Men’s Selection Committee has named Mr Washington Sundar as a replacement. The all-rounder arrived in Colombo this evening and has joined the squad," read the statement by BCCI.

Axar played a valiant knock of 42 runs on Friday as India lost narrowly in the dead-rubber Super Four clash against Bangladesh. He was seen struggling with hamstring issues and later the team management decided&nbsp;to give an SOS call to Sundar. He travelled to Colombo in Sri Lanka and trained with the squad as they prepared for the final on Sunday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-when-could-max-verstappen-clinch-2023-formula-one-championship-636571">Explained | When could Max Verstappen clinch 2023 Formula One Championship</a>

<h2>India target seventh Asia Cup</h2>

The record champions of the continental championship will target a record seventh title as they play&nbsp;against the hosts on Sunday. India come into the contest with a narrow defeat against Bangladesh while Sri Lanka booked their place in the summit clash in a last-ball finish against Pakistan. India will bank on the services of Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli while KL Rahul is also in excellent touch, having returned to the team after a long injury layoff.

Sri Lanka too have an injury issue as Maheesh Theekshana will sit out with a hamstring injury. He was ruled on Saturday after scans revealed the extent of the injury. They will target back-to-back Asia Cup titles having won the 20-over version in 2022.

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially ruled out Axar Patel from the Asia Cup 2023 finale against Sri Lanka on Sunday, September 17. The blow comes after Axar had sustained a hamstring niggle and was hit multiple times on his wrist.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially ruled out Axar Patel from the Asia Cup 2023 finale against Sri Lanka on Sunday, September 17. The blow comes after Axar had sustained a hamstring niggle and was hit multiple times on his wrist. Washington Sundar, already in Colombo is likely to play in his place on Sunday in a wildcard entry. The Indian team will be particularly aware of the Axar situation as the ODI World Cup is less than a month away. 🚨 NEWS: Washington Sundar replaces Axar Patel Mr. Axar Patel has been ruled out of the #AsiaCup2023 final against Sri Lanka due to a left quadriceps strain sustained during India's Super Four match against Bangladesh on Friday. #TeamIndia Details 🔽https://t.co/CNZ2DDlBBa — BCCI (@BCCI) September 16, 2023 × Axar ruled out "Mr. Axar Patel has been ruled out of the Asia Cup final against Sri Lanka due to a left quadriceps strain sustained during India's Super Four match against Bangladesh on Friday." "The Men’s Selection Committee has named Mr Washington Sundar as a replacement. The all-rounder arrived in Colombo this evening and has joined the squad," read the statement by BCCI. Axar played a valiant knock of 42 runs on Friday as India lost narrowly in the dead-rubber Super Four clash against Bangladesh. He was seen struggling with hamstring issues and later the team management decided to give an SOS call to Sundar. He travelled to Colombo in Sri Lanka and trained with the squad as they prepared for the final on Sunday. ALSO READ | Explained | When could Max Verstappen clinch 2023 Formula One Championship India target seventh Asia Cup The record champions of the continental championship will target a record seventh title as they play against the hosts on Sunday. India come into the contest with a narrow defeat against Bangladesh while Sri Lanka booked their place in the summit clash in a last-ball finish against Pakistan. India will bank on the services of Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli while KL Rahul is also in excellent touch, having returned to the team after a long injury layoff. Sri Lanka too have an injury issue as Maheesh Theekshana will sit out with a hamstring injury. He was ruled on Saturday after scans revealed the extent of the injury. They will target back-to-back Asia Cup titles having won the 20-over version in 2022. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup 2023: Axar Patel officially ruled out of Colombo finale against Sri Lanka; Washington Sundar roped in

Washington Sundar, the young spin prodigy, will join the Indian Team in Colombo as the cover for injured Axar Patel ahead of the Asia Cup final on Sunday. Sundar, attending the Asian Games camp in Bengaluru, is being flown to Sri Lanka on Saturday after Axar got ruled out with niggles he suffered during the Bangladesh game.

Axar, who got two back-to-back games against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in this Asia Cup, was among the runs during the chase against the Tigers, hitting 42 off 34 balls. Though he brought his A-game while chasing, he failed to get the job done for India as they lost the tight encounter by six runs.&nbsp;

Even during the innings, Axar struggled with the niggles and wrist pain, with team physio hopping onto the field to put tapping on his thigh. Though he struck two sixes and three fours, Axar found it tougher to middle the ball on most occasions because of the discomfort. The extent of his injury remains unknown as of now.

Meanwhile, following the Asia Cup 2023 final on Sunday, Sundar will rejoin the Asian Games camp in Bengaluru before flying to Hangzhou, China, for the cricket competition, which gets underway on October 1.&nbsp;

The right-arm off-spinner has played some handy roles in his brief career, with the famous Gabba outing against Australia a couple of years ago being the top highlight. Sundar last featured for India in an ODI against New Zealand in January early this year but failed to make the cut in the provisional squad for the World Cup 2023.

Although India will play its first-choice XI against Sri Lanka in the all-important final, with Ravindra Jadeja, Hardik Pandya and Shardul Thakur playing as all-rounders, call on Washington Sundar’s selection will fall to the pitch on offer, given the Colombo track has assisted spinners throughout.

<h2>Sri Lanka to miss star player in final</h2>

Maheesh Theekshana, Sri Lanka’s premier spinner, will remain unavailable for selection for the big game against India in the Asia Cup final on Sunday. Theekshana, who injured his right hamstring during the Pakistan tie in the Super Four stage, is ruled out of the final as scans confirmed a muscle injury.

The Sri Lankan selectors have named Sahan Arachchige as his replacement, while Theekshana will return to the High-Performance Center to commence rehabilitation work.

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Washington Sundar, the young spin prodigy, will join the Indian Team in Colombo as the cover for injured Axar Patel ahead of the Asia Cup final on Sunday. Sundar, attending the Asian Games camp in Bengaluru, is being flown to Sri Lanka on Saturday after Axar got ruled out with niggles he suffered during the Bangladesh game.

Washington Sundar, the young spin prodigy, will join the Indian Team in Colombo as the cover for injured Axar Patel ahead of the Asia Cup final on Sunday. Sundar, attending the Asian Games camp in Bengaluru, is being flown to Sri Lanka on Saturday after Axar got ruled out with niggles he suffered during the Bangladesh game. Axar, who got two back-to-back games against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in this Asia Cup, was among the runs during the chase against the Tigers, hitting 42 off 34 balls. Though he brought his A-game while chasing, he failed to get the job done for India as they lost the tight encounter by six runs. Even during the innings, Axar struggled with the niggles and wrist pain, with team physio hopping onto the field to put tapping on his thigh. Though he struck two sixes and three fours, Axar found it tougher to middle the ball on most occasions because of the discomfort. The extent of his injury remains unknown as of now. Meanwhile, following the Asia Cup 2023 final on Sunday, Sundar will rejoin the Asian Games camp in Bengaluru before flying to Hangzhou, China, for the cricket competition, which gets underway on October 1. The right-arm off-spinner has played some handy roles in his brief career, with the famous Gabba outing against Australia a couple of years ago being the top highlight. Sundar last featured for India in an ODI against New Zealand in January early this year but failed to make the cut in the provisional squad for the World Cup 2023. Although India will play its first-choice XI against Sri Lanka in the all-important final, with Ravindra Jadeja, Hardik Pandya and Shardul Thakur playing as all-rounders, call on Washington Sundar’s selection will fall to the pitch on offer, given the Colombo track has assisted spinners throughout. Sri Lanka to miss star player in final Maheesh Theekshana, Sri Lanka’s premier spinner, will remain unavailable for selection for the big game against India in the Asia Cup final on Sunday. Theekshana, who injured his right hamstring during the Pakistan tie in the Super Four stage, is ruled out of the final as scans confirmed a muscle injury. The Sri Lankan selectors have named Sahan Arachchige as his replacement, while Theekshana will return to the High-Performance Center to commence rehabilitation work. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup: Washington Sundar joins Indian Team in Colombo as cover for injured Axar Patel ahead of final

Indian captain Rohit Sharma explained the reason for overlooking Yuvzendra Chahal as the BCCI selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, announced a strong 17-man squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2023 edition. The squad comprises Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav as the spinners but Chahal found no place. Thus, Hitman pointed out the reason behind the 33-year-old's omission and stated that 'World Cup door is not closed on anyone'.

Speaking to the reporters after India's squad got announced, Rohit said, "We had a deep discussion about an off-spinner. And about a leg-spinner as well. Where the thing actually boils down is, the batting option at No. 8 and No. 9."

"We want somebody who can bat at that spot. Axar being Axar, he had a good run this year, and batted well in white-ball cricket, especially. He did not get a lot of opportunities in red-ball but he batted well in white-ball cricket, especially in the IPL. In the West Indies tour, he couldn't get a lot of opportunities because he bats at the backend. With him being there, it allows us the option of first having a left-hander whom we can use up the order and go in to play the spinners. He can do that for us," Rohit stated.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-need-flexibility-every-player-must-bat-anywhere-in-batting-order-rohit-on-indian-squad-for-asia-cup-627524">You need flexibility, every player must bat anywhere in batting order: Rohit on Indian squad for Asia Cup</a>

<h2>'Only way we could have got&nbsp;him in&nbsp;was&nbsp;by taking one of the seamers out'</h2>

The 36-year-old Indian skipper further added, "We thought about off-spinners as well, Ashwin and Washi as well but right now, Chahal has to miss out because we can only get 17 players there. The only way we could have done that (brought him in) is by taking one of the seamers out. We cannot really do that because seamers are going to play a big role in the next 2 months, considering the number of games in the next two months. Some of them are coming back after a long time. We wanted to get them in and see what they can do."

Chahal has been behind in the pecking order in the 50-over format. His last ODI came versus New Zealand during the home series early this year. He wasn't part of the playing XI in the following home series versus Australia and even missed out during the Windies tour. The veteran will still be hopeful for a miraculous turnaround before the ODI World Cup squad is announced.&nbsp;

Chahal has so far claimed 121 wickets in 72 ODIs and was part of India's run in the 2019 ODI World Cup, where they bowed out in the semi-finals.&nbsp;

India squad for Asia Cup 2023

Rohit Sharma (C), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Prasidh Krishna

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Indian captain Rohit Sharma explained the reason for overlooking Yuvzendra Chahal as the BCCI selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, announced a strong 17-man squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2023 edition.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma explained the reason for overlooking Yuvzendra Chahal as the BCCI selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, announced a strong 17-man squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2023 edition. The squad comprises Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav as the spinners but Chahal found no place. Thus, Hitman pointed out the reason behind the 33-year-old's omission and stated that 'World Cup door is not closed on anyone'. Speaking to the reporters after India's squad got announced, Rohit said, "We had a deep discussion about an off-spinner. And about a leg-spinner as well. Where the thing actually boils down is, the batting option at No. 8 and No. 9." "We want somebody who can bat at that spot. Axar being Axar, he had a good run this year, and batted well in white-ball cricket, especially. He did not get a lot of opportunities in red-ball but he batted well in white-ball cricket, especially in the IPL. In the West Indies tour, he couldn't get a lot of opportunities because he bats at the backend. With him being there, it allows us the option of first having a left-hander whom we can use up the order and go in to play the spinners. He can do that for us," Rohit stated. Also read: You need flexibility, every player must bat anywhere in batting order: Rohit on Indian squad for Asia Cup 'Only way we could have got him in was by taking one of the seamers out' The 36-year-old Indian skipper further added, "We thought about off-spinners as well, Ashwin and Washi as well but right now, Chahal has to miss out because we can only get 17 players there. The only way we could have done that (brought him in) is by taking one of the seamers out. We cannot really do that because seamers are going to play a big role in the next 2 months, considering the number of games in the next two months. Some of them are coming back after a long time. We wanted to get them in and see what they can do." Chahal has been behind in the pecking order in the 50-over format. His last ODI came versus New Zealand during the home series early this year. He wasn't part of the playing XI in the following home series versus Australia and even missed out during the Windies tour. The veteran will still be hopeful for a miraculous turnaround before the ODI World Cup squad is announced. Chahal has so far claimed 121 wickets in 72 ODIs and was part of India's run in the 2019 ODI World Cup, where they bowed out in the semi-finals. India squad for Asia Cup 2023 Rohit Sharma (C), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Prasidh Krishna WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Only way we could have...': Rohit on Chahal's Asia Cup snub, says 'World Cup door not closed on anyone'

India lost the five-match T20I series to West Indies, in Florida, on Sunday (August 13). Having levelled the five T20Is after being 0-2 down, the Hardik Pandya-led Men in Blue were expected to continue with the winning momentum and clinch the series, however, Rovman Powell-led Windies were clinical in the final T20I to win by eight wickets.

This became India's first-ever five-match T20I series overall. Meanwhile, West Indies won their maiden bilateral series (minimum of three games) versus the opponent since 2006, when they defeated Rahul Dravid &amp; Co. 4-1 in the Caribbean island.

Thus, many fingers have been raised on Hardik's leadership whereas head coach Rahul Dravid is also being criticised left, right and centre.&nbsp;

Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra also joined in and analysed Hardik's captaincy after the WI T20Is. Chopra pointed out how Axar Patel was underutilised throughout the series (did not bat in third and fourth T20I and completed his full quota of overs in only two games) and feels India played with only ten players.

<h2>'It almost seems like we played with 10 players'</h2>

On his YouTube channel, Chopra said, "Axar Patel was bowling the first over in the last match and in this match, Axar Patel bowled one over in total. The way Axar Patel has been used, we really don't know. It almost seems like we played with 10 players."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-test-series-loss-in-sa-to-disappointment-in-wi-t20is-team-indias-shocking-lows-in-rahul-dravids-tenure-625379">From Test series loss in SA to disappointment in WI T20Is: Team India's shocking LOWS in Rahul Dravid's tenure</a>

He further asserted, “You are saying that you will get Kuldeep Yadav to bowl if Nicholas Pooran comes, or else you will get Axar to complete his overs. What will you do if Nicholas Pooran comes up the order? He came up the order when Arshdeep Singh dismissed Kyle Mayers once again. Axar Patel is not being used at all."

“You have made him (Mukesh) a totally old-ball bowler. Arshdeep Singh was bowled two overs in which he picked up a wicket but he didn't get overs after that. I have got no idea whatsoever about the bowling changes and I won't even try to explain,” a baffled&nbsp;Chopra added.

A lot has been said and written about Hardik's captaincy after India lost the five T20Is. While he claimed four wickets in the series, going wicketless in the last three games, his batting strike rate added to his criticism (striking at 110).

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India lost the five-match T20I series to West Indies, in Florida, on Sunday (August 13). Having levelled the five T20Is after being 0-2 down, the Hardik Pandya-led Men in Blue were expected to continue with the winning momentum and clinch the series, however, Rovman Powell-led Windies were clinical in the final T20I to win by eight wickets.

India lost the five-match T20I series to West Indies, in Florida, on Sunday (August 13). Having levelled the five T20Is after being 0-2 down, the Hardik Pandya-led Men in Blue were expected to continue with the winning momentum and clinch the series, however, Rovman Powell-led Windies were clinical in the final T20I to win by eight wickets. This became India's first-ever five-match T20I series overall. Meanwhile, West Indies won their maiden bilateral series (minimum of three games) versus the opponent since 2006, when they defeated Rahul Dravid & Co. 4-1 in the Caribbean island. Thus, many fingers have been raised on Hardik's leadership whereas head coach Rahul Dravid is also being criticised left, right and centre. Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra also joined in and analysed Hardik's captaincy after the WI T20Is. Chopra pointed out how Axar Patel was underutilised throughout the series (did not bat in third and fourth T20I and completed his full quota of overs in only two games) and feels India played with only ten players. 'It almost seems like we played with 10 players' On his YouTube channel, Chopra said, "Axar Patel was bowling the first over in the last match and in this match, Axar Patel bowled one over in total. The way Axar Patel has been used, we really don't know. It almost seems like we played with 10 players." Also read: From Test series loss in SA to disappointment in WI T20Is: Team India's shocking LOWS in Rahul Dravid's tenure He further asserted, “You are saying that you will get Kuldeep Yadav to bowl if Nicholas Pooran comes, or else you will get Axar to complete his overs. What will you do if Nicholas Pooran comes up the order? He came up the order when Arshdeep Singh dismissed Kyle Mayers once again. Axar Patel is not being used at all." “You have made him (Mukesh) a totally old-ball bowler. Arshdeep Singh was bowled two overs in which he picked up a wicket but he didn't get overs after that. I have got no idea whatsoever about the bowling changes and I won't even try to explain,” a baffled Chopra added. A lot has been said and written about Hardik's captaincy after India lost the five T20Is. While he claimed four wickets in the series, going wicketless in the last three games, his batting strike rate added to his criticism (striking at 110). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'India played with 10 players': Aakash Chopra baffled with Hardik Pandya's tactics after WI T20Is loss

On Friday (June 23), the BCCI selection committee named India's squads&nbsp;for their two-match Test series and three ODIs versus West Indies as the tour commences next month in the Caribbean. Rohit Sharma retained captaincy of the 16-man Test squad, despite criticism after India's WTC final loss, whereas Ajinkya Rahane regained the vice-captaincy post.

Rahane served as Virat Kohli's deputy in whites for a long time and even led the team with aplomb in his absence before losing the post in late 2021. Soon, he even lost his spot before making his comeback during the WTC finale versus Australia early this month, where he returned with a sublime 89 and 46. With injuries to Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah, Rahane once again got the vice-captaincy back and Little Master Sunil Gavaskar reacted to the same.

Gavaskar said there is 'nothing wrong' in Rahane regaining vice-captaincy but feels there was an opportunity lost to name a youngster as Rohit's deputy for the Windies tour. Talking to Sports Today, he said, "There is nothing wrong in having him [Ajinkya Rahane] as the vice-captain, but a missed opportunity to groom a young player. At least, tell a young player that we are looking at you as a future captain. So, he starts to think as a future leader."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-james-anderson-nathan-lyon-throw-ceremonial-pitches-during-mlb-london-game-watch-608671">Ashes 2023: James Anderson, Nathan Lyon throw ceremonial pitches during MLB London game - WATCH</a>

<h2>'One is Shubman Gill and the other is....'</h2>

Further, Gavaskar named three youngsters who can lead India in whites going forward. "One is Shubman Gill and the other is Axar Patel [as future captains] because Axar comes in leaps and bounds, he just gets better every match. Giving him the responsibility as vice-captain will make them think. So, these are the two candidates in my view. If there are others, somebody like Ishan Kishan, once he cements his place in the team. He can come in the reckoning as well," the veteran added.

India's tour of West Indies kicks off on July 12, comprising two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is.

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On Friday (June 23), the BCCI selection committee named India's squads for their two-match Test series and three ODIs versus West Indies as the tour commences next month in the Caribbean.

On Friday (June 23), the BCCI selection committee named India's squads for their two-match Test series and three ODIs versus West Indies as the tour commences next month in the Caribbean. Rohit Sharma retained captaincy of the 16-man Test squad, despite criticism after India's WTC final loss, whereas Ajinkya Rahane regained the vice-captaincy post. Rahane served as Virat Kohli's deputy in whites for a long time and even led the team with aplomb in his absence before losing the post in late 2021. Soon, he even lost his spot before making his comeback during the WTC finale versus Australia early this month, where he returned with a sublime 89 and 46. With injuries to Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah, Rahane once again got the vice-captaincy back and Little Master Sunil Gavaskar reacted to the same. Gavaskar said there is 'nothing wrong' in Rahane regaining vice-captaincy but feels there was an opportunity lost to name a youngster as Rohit's deputy for the Windies tour. Talking to Sports Today, he said, "There is nothing wrong in having him [Ajinkya Rahane] as the vice-captain, but a missed opportunity to groom a young player. At least, tell a young player that we are looking at you as a future captain. So, he starts to think as a future leader." Also Read: Ashes 2023: James Anderson, Nathan Lyon throw ceremonial pitches during MLB London game - WATCH 'One is Shubman Gill and the other is....' Further, Gavaskar named three youngsters who can lead India in whites going forward. "One is Shubman Gill and the other is Axar Patel [as future captains] because Axar comes in leaps and bounds, he just gets better every match. Giving him the responsibility as vice-captain will make them think. So, these are the two candidates in my view. If there are others, somebody like Ishan Kishan, once he cements his place in the team. He can come in the reckoning as well," the veteran added. India's tour of West Indies kicks off on July 12, comprising two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Gavaskar opines on Rahane regaining vice-captaincy, suggests three names as India's next Test skipper

With the conclusion of IPL 2023, Indian players have now shifted their focus to the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final where they will take on the No. 1 ranked Australian team in a bid to end their ten-year-long ICC-title drought. Switching from white ball to red ball won't be easy for the Indian players but spin-bowling all-rounder Axar Patel said that the WTC final-bound players practised with Dukes ball even during IPL 16.

"So even during the IPL, it was discussed that we will bowl with the red ball. We had red balls, so we were using them. You know when and how to play, how much time you have. This mental switch from white ball to red ball is obviously tough, but we have enough time," Patel told ICC.

<h2>'During the IPL, we ordered....'</h2>

Axar further added, "The difference is the Dukes ball remains shinier for longer. But during the IPL, we had ordered the ball, so were practising with it and have gotten used to it." It is to be noted that Indian players arrived in the United Kingdom in different batches for the forthcoming WTC final. The players who were out of the IPL left first and were followed by the ones whose teams bowed out in the playoffs. The likes of Ajinkya Rahane, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami, Shubman Gill, etc. arrived in the last batch after IPL 2023 final ended in the early hours on Tuesday (May 30).

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/cricket/wtc-final-indians-with-most-wickets-in-tests-vs-australia-ashwin-jadeja-kumble-harbhajan-kapil-1685603976795">WTC Final: Indians with most wickets in Tests versus Australia</a>

India will lock horns with Australia at the iconic Kennington Oval, London on June 07 for the marquee clash. In the inaugural WTC final, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team lost to New Zealand by eight wickets, in Southampton, and, hence, would be eager to win the Test mace this time around.

India's final squad for WTC final versus Australia

Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, KS Bharat (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Ishan Kishan (wk)

Standby players: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mukesh Kumar, Suryakumar Yadav

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&nbsp;

With the conclusion of IPL 2023, Indian players have now shifted their focus to the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final where they will take on the No.

With the conclusion of IPL 2023, Indian players have now shifted their focus to the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final where they will take on the No. 1 ranked Australian team in a bid to end their ten-year-long ICC-title drought. Switching from white ball to red ball won't be easy for the Indian players but spin-bowling all-rounder Axar Patel said that the WTC final-bound players practised with Dukes ball even during IPL 16. "So even during the IPL, it was discussed that we will bowl with the red ball. We had red balls, so we were using them. You know when and how to play, how much time you have. This mental switch from white ball to red ball is obviously tough, but we have enough time," Patel told ICC. 'During the IPL, we ordered....' Axar further added, "The difference is the Dukes ball remains shinier for longer. But during the IPL, we had ordered the ball, so were practising with it and have gotten used to it." It is to be noted that Indian players arrived in the United Kingdom in different batches for the forthcoming WTC final. The players who were out of the IPL left first and were followed by the ones whose teams bowed out in the playoffs. The likes of Ajinkya Rahane, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami, Shubman Gill, etc. arrived in the last batch after IPL 2023 final ended in the early hours on Tuesday (May 30). Also Read: WTC Final: Indians with most wickets in Tests versus Australia India will lock horns with Australia at the iconic Kennington Oval, London on June 07 for the marquee clash. In the inaugural WTC final, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team lost to New Zealand by eight wickets, in Southampton, and, hence, would be eager to win the Test mace this time around. India's final squad for WTC final versus Australia Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, KS Bharat (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Ishan Kishan (wk) Standby players: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mukesh Kumar, Suryakumar Yadav WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

WTC Final: Indian players practised with Dukes ball during IPL 2023, reveals Axar Patel ahead of marquee tie

In Pictures: Delhi Capitals' 2023 season had few positives to reflect upon

Former India batsman Sunil Gavaskar wants Delhi Capitals to appoint Axar Patel as their captain, replacing David Warner. Notably, Warner was given the captaincy after DC's regular skipper Rishabh Pant was sidelined for the season following a horrible car accident in December 2022.

Gavaskar, while speaking on Star Sports Cricket Live, said, "I believe Axar Patel should be appointed the captain of Delhi Capitals. He is an honest player. He's in a good rhythm. The Indian team can benefit from him being named the captain of the franchise and performing well. All these things should be done in a long run."

The statement comes as Delhi won its second match on the trot after losing five in a row. Patel chipped in with both bat and ball in Delhi's second with as he first scored 34 off 34, helping Capitals put up 144/9 in 20 overs. He then took 2/21i his four overs as Delhi won a cliffhanger by seven runs.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-2023-india-team-rohit-kohli-rahane-pujara-shami-siraj-ashwin-jadeja-shubman-gill-ks-bharat-shardul-585893">WTC Final, 2023: BCCI announces squad, Ajinkya Rahane makes a comeback</a>

Speaking on his performance at the post-match presentation, he said, "2/21 since I scored 34 in 34 so the two wickets were more important. I ordered for coffee and I left the glass like that, when three wickets fell in one over. Pandey and I discussed we need to take it as deep as possible."

All in all, Axar has been a top performer for Delhi this season with both bat and ball. The all-rounder has scored 182 runs in seven matches so far and is behind only skipper David Warner, who has scored 306 runs in seven matches. In terms of bowling, he's second highest wicket-taker for Delhi along with Anrich Nortje with six wickets this season, only behind spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who has seven wickets.

With two wins in seven games, Delhi have four points with a long way to long if they wish to be a part of playoffs this season.

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Former India batsman Sunil Gavaskar wants Delhi Capitals to appoint Axar Patel as their captain, replacing David Warner. Notably, Warner was given the captaincy after DC's regular skipper Rishabh Pant was sidelined for the season following a horrible car accident in December 2022.

Former India batsman Sunil Gavaskar wants Delhi Capitals to appoint Axar Patel as their captain, replacing David Warner. Notably, Warner was given the captaincy after DC's regular skipper Rishabh Pant was sidelined for the season following a horrible car accident in December 2022. Gavaskar, while speaking on Star Sports Cricket Live, said, "I believe Axar Patel should be appointed the captain of Delhi Capitals. He is an honest player. He's in a good rhythm. The Indian team can benefit from him being named the captain of the franchise and performing well. All these things should be done in a long run." The statement comes as Delhi won its second match on the trot after losing five in a row. Patel chipped in with both bat and ball in Delhi's second with as he first scored 34 off 34, helping Capitals put up 144/9 in 20 overs. He then took 2/21i his four overs as Delhi won a cliffhanger by seven runs. Also Read: WTC Final, 2023: BCCI announces squad, Ajinkya Rahane makes a comeback Speaking on his performance at the post-match presentation, he said, "2/21 since I scored 34 in 34 so the two wickets were more important. I ordered for coffee and I left the glass like that, when three wickets fell in one over. Pandey and I discussed we need to take it as deep as possible." All in all, Axar has been a top performer for Delhi this season with both bat and ball. The all-rounder has scored 182 runs in seven matches so far and is behind only skipper David Warner, who has scored 306 runs in seven matches. In terms of bowling, he's second highest wicket-taker for Delhi along with Anrich Nortje with six wickets this season, only behind spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who has seven wickets. With two wins in seven games, Delhi have four points with a long way to long if they wish to be a part of playoffs this season. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IPL 2023: Sunil Gavaskar wants Delhi Capitals to replace Warner as captain with THIS Indian player

Delhi Capitals showman Axar Patel starred for his side as he, along with some help from pacers at the death, helped DC beat SRH by seven runs in Hyderabad on Monday evening. While Washington Sundar kept the hosts in the chase almost till the last moment, pinpoint Yorkers from Mukesh Kumar did the job for Delhi, who now have won their second straight game in IPL 2023.

The under-fire Delhi Capitals won the toss and elected to bat first. Captain David Warner returned to his old base in Hyderabad and was joined by a new opening partner Phil Salt, who got out on a first ball duck off Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Warner’s compatriot Mitchell Marsh came one down and hammered Marco Jansen for five fours in one over. Warner also got after Washington Sundar, hitting him for a four and a six in his first over.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-irfan-pathan-in-awe-of-rcbs-mohammed-siraj-says-hes-the-difference-maker-for-them-this-season-585694">IPL 2023: Irfan Pathan in awe of RCB's Mohammed Siraj, says he's the difference-maker for them this season</a>

With the way they found the rhythm inside the Powerplay, Delhi looked like making the most of this start. Things, however, went the other way as they first lost Marsh, trapped in-front on 25 and then lost three wickets in one over to off-spinner Sundar. That passage of play pulled back their momentum as they were left reeling at 62 for five in eight overs.

Two experienced campaigners, Manish Pandey and Axar Patel, steadied the sinking ship and deployed a cautious approach to avoid getting all out before time. Both scored 34 runs each, but that wasn’t enough, as DC managed a mediocre 144 for nine.

SRH's chase began in the most SRH manner, who, unlike other top-performing teams, haven’t got going in IPL 2023. With century-maker Harry Brook and Mayank Agarwal opening, they got off to a decent start but lost a wicket (Brook bowled off Nortje) inside the first six overs.

After a 38-run stand, Delhi’s star performer Axar removed Agarwal on 49. It was the breakthrough DC was looking for, as in no time, they picked two more wickets to SRH on the back foot.&nbsp;It started to get exciting for DC as Axar came back to remove SRH captain Aiden Markram on three.

Sundar and Henrich Klaassen then tried scripting&nbsp;a comeback for the hosts, but impressive death bowling from Nortje and Mukesh Kumar spoiled their party as Delhi Capitals beat SunRisers Hyderabad by seven runs.

Delhi Capitals showman Axar Patel starred for his side as he, along with some help from pacers at the death, helped DC beat SRH by seven runs in Hyderabad on Monday evening.

Delhi Capitals showman Axar Patel starred for his side as he, along with some help from pacers at the death, helped DC beat SRH by seven runs in Hyderabad on Monday evening. While Washington Sundar kept the hosts in the chase almost till the last moment, pinpoint Yorkers from Mukesh Kumar did the job for Delhi, who now have won their second straight game in IPL 2023. The under-fire Delhi Capitals won the toss and elected to bat first. Captain David Warner returned to his old base in Hyderabad and was joined by a new opening partner Phil Salt, who got out on a first ball duck off Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Warner’s compatriot Mitchell Marsh came one down and hammered Marco Jansen for five fours in one over. Warner also got after Washington Sundar, hitting him for a four and a six in his first over. ALSO READ: IPL 2023: Irfan Pathan in awe of RCB's Mohammed Siraj, says he's the difference-maker for them this season With the way they found the rhythm inside the Powerplay, Delhi looked like making the most of this start. Things, however, went the other way as they first lost Marsh, trapped in-front on 25 and then lost three wickets in one over to off-spinner Sundar. That passage of play pulled back their momentum as they were left reeling at 62 for five in eight overs. Two experienced campaigners, Manish Pandey and Axar Patel, steadied the sinking ship and deployed a cautious approach to avoid getting all out before time. Both scored 34 runs each, but that wasn’t enough, as DC managed a mediocre 144 for nine. SRH's chase began in the most SRH manner, who, unlike other top-performing teams, haven’t got going in IPL 2023. With century-maker Harry Brook and Mayank Agarwal opening, they got off to a decent start but lost a wicket (Brook bowled off Nortje) inside the first six overs. After a 38-run stand, Delhi’s star performer Axar removed Agarwal on 49. It was the breakthrough DC was looking for, as in no time, they picked two more wickets to SRH on the back foot. It started to get exciting for DC as Axar came back to remove SRH captain Aiden Markram on three. Sundar and Henrich Klaassen then tried scripting a comeback for the hosts, but impressive death bowling from Nortje and Mukesh Kumar spoiled their party as Delhi Capitals beat SunRisers Hyderabad by seven runs.

IPL 2023: Axar Patel, pacers power Delhi Capitals to successive win, stun SRH by 7 runs

Former Australia great and Delhi Capitals assistant head coach Shane Watson was full of praise for star all-rounder Axar Patel having impressed in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season. According to Watson, Axar is a “world-class” power hitter and can help DC recover in the IPL season after a poor start. DC are due to face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Monday, April 24 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.

"The first few years of Axar, we were used to seeing him as a very skilled bowler but his batting was a little restricted. But now he's a world-class power hitter and a world-class batsman. We saw that in the Test matches against Australia and now to see what he's done in IPL is very special. It shows his dedication to his skill. And he's doing it against the best bowlers in the world, not part-time bowlers," the former Australia all-rounder added.

DC have endured a tough start to life in the current season of the IPL as they lost their first five matches but recently registered their first win of the season. DC beat KKR in a low-scoring affair on Thursday and will look to continue that momentum ahead of the SRH clash, with both teams occupying the bottom two spots.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-csk-skipper-ms-dhoni-makes-big-farewell-statement-after-win-vs-kkr-585540">IPL 2023: CSK skipper MS Dhoni makes big FAREWELL statement after win vs KKR</a>

"I enjoyed my rivalry playing against Ishant Sharma. Now to work with him as a coaching staff is incredible. He certainly will play a big part in our team, especially in the powerplay. There's still a lot of T20 cricket left in Ishant Sharma,” Watson added.

The Capitals were expected to flourish under the captaincy of David Warner who was given the reins of the side after skipper Rishabh Pant was out of the season. DC’s chances of making the playoffs are slim after five teams have eight or more points and have made it tough for them, however, DC still return a mathematical chance of making the last four.

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Former Australia great and Delhi Capitals assistant head coach Shane Watson was full of praise for star all-rounder Axar Patel having impressed in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season.

Former Australia great and Delhi Capitals assistant head coach Shane Watson was full of praise for star all-rounder Axar Patel having impressed in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season. According to Watson, Axar is a “world-class” power hitter and can help DC recover in the IPL season after a poor start. DC are due to face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Monday, April 24 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. "The first few years of Axar, we were used to seeing him as a very skilled bowler but his batting was a little restricted. But now he's a world-class power hitter and a world-class batsman. We saw that in the Test matches against Australia and now to see what he's done in IPL is very special. It shows his dedication to his skill. And he's doing it against the best bowlers in the world, not part-time bowlers," the former Australia all-rounder added. DC have endured a tough start to life in the current season of the IPL as they lost their first five matches but recently registered their first win of the season. DC beat KKR in a low-scoring affair on Thursday and will look to continue that momentum ahead of the SRH clash, with both teams occupying the bottom two spots. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: CSK skipper MS Dhoni makes big FAREWELL statement after win vs KKR "I enjoyed my rivalry playing against Ishant Sharma. Now to work with him as a coaching staff is incredible. He certainly will play a big part in our team, especially in the powerplay. There's still a lot of T20 cricket left in Ishant Sharma,” Watson added. The Capitals were expected to flourish under the captaincy of David Warner who was given the reins of the side after skipper Rishabh Pant was out of the season. DC’s chances of making the playoffs are slim after five teams have eight or more points and have made it tough for them, however, DC still return a mathematical chance of making the last four. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IPL 2023: Shane Watson backs Axar Patel's batting ability, says 'He is a world-class power hitter'

Delhi Capitals vice-captain Axar Patel made it clear that skipper David Warner's strike rate is a concern among the camp as well and that he has not been the sheet anchor role.

“He has not been given the sheet anchor role. Ricky (Ponting, Head Coach), Dada (Sourav Ganguly, Director of Cricket), Pravin (Amre) sir, Watto (Shane Watson), everyone is having constant talks with Warner about his strike rate,” Axar told reporters after DC's fourth consecutive loss this season.

The deputy, however, feels for his skipper and said that, "He is trying really hard but he is just not able to hit it properly (not verbatim)."

Notably, David Warner is currently the second highest run scorer in IPL 2023 with 209 runs in four games at an average of 52.25 but at lowly strike rate of just 114.84. Warner has also scored three fifties in four games but all in a losing cause.

Also Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-sourav-ganguly-ponting-unamused-after-warners-last-ball-throw-in-dcs-loss-vs-mi-watch-581621">Sourav Ganguly, Ponting unamused after Warner's last-ball throw in DC's loss vs MI</a>

In Delhi's latest loss to Mumbai, nobody from the top-order could hang around as Warner crawled to his fifty. It was Axar Patel in the end to hit a quickfire 54 off 25 to take Delhi to a respectful total of 172.

However, once Axar got out, the DC collapsed like a House of Cards as it lost four wickets for meagre six runs. The southpaw although blames himself for that.

“I was also at fault. There were ten more balls left. I could have been more careful and added a few more runs to our total. It was the first ball and I thought if I connected it, the bowler will come under pressure,” said Axar.

Chasing 173, MI had a great start with their skipper Rohit Sharma managing his first fifty of the season. Mumbai, thanks for Rohit Sharma's 45-ball 65 and Tilak Verma's 29-ball 41, beat Delhi Capitals by six wickets to get their first points of the season.

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Delhi Capitals vice-captain Axar Patel made it clear that skipper David Warner's strike rate is a concern among the camp as well and that he has not been the sheet anchor role.

Delhi Capitals vice-captain Axar Patel made it clear that skipper David Warner's strike rate is a concern among the camp as well and that he has not been the sheet anchor role. “He has not been given the sheet anchor role. Ricky (Ponting, Head Coach), Dada (Sourav Ganguly, Director of Cricket), Pravin (Amre) sir, Watto (Shane Watson), everyone is having constant talks with Warner about his strike rate,” Axar told reporters after DC's fourth consecutive loss this season. The deputy, however, feels for his skipper and said that, "He is trying really hard but he is just not able to hit it properly (not verbatim)." Notably, David Warner is currently the second highest run scorer in IPL 2023 with 209 runs in four games at an average of 52.25 but at lowly strike rate of just 114.84. Warner has also scored three fifties in four games but all in a losing cause. Also Watch: Sourav Ganguly, Ponting unamused after Warner's last-ball throw in DC's loss vs MI In Delhi's latest loss to Mumbai, nobody from the top-order could hang around as Warner crawled to his fifty. It was Axar Patel in the end to hit a quickfire 54 off 25 to take Delhi to a respectful total of 172. However, once Axar got out, the DC collapsed like a House of Cards as it lost four wickets for meagre six runs. The southpaw although blames himself for that. “I was also at fault. There were ten more balls left. I could have been more careful and added a few more runs to our total. It was the first ball and I thought if I connected it, the bowler will come under pressure,” said Axar. Chasing 173, MI had a great start with their skipper Rohit Sharma managing his first fifty of the season. Mumbai, thanks for Rohit Sharma's 45-ball 65 and Tilak Verma's 29-ball 41, beat Delhi Capitals by six wickets to get their first points of the season. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IPL 2023: 'Everyone's talking to him,' says Axar Patel on DC skipper Warner's slow strike rate

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition is set to kick off on March 31 with the four-time winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to face the defending champions Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT)&nbsp; in the season opener in Ahmedabad. Talking about the Delhi Capitals (DC), they dealt with a huge blow when their regular skipper Rishabh Pant got involved in a horrific car crash last year. As the star Indian keeper-batter is out of action for quite some time, the Delhi camp recently named David Warner as their captain for IPL 2023.

On March 16 (Thursday), the official Twitter handle of the DC franchise shared a tweet to share the news with one and all. While the Aussie opener Warner was named the captain, India's star all-rounder Axar Patel will serve as his deputy for the forthcoming edition. DC captioned the tweet, "David Warner (c), Axar Patel (vc)

All set to roar loud this #IPL2023 under the leadership of these two dynamic southpaws". Check out the tweet:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
David Warner 👉🏼 (𝗖) 
Axar Patel 👉🏼 (𝗩𝗖) 
 
All set to roar loud this <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2023</a> under the leadership of these two dynamic southpaws 🐯<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/davidwarner31?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@davidwarner31</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/akshar2026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@akshar2026</a> <a href="https://t.co/5VfgyefjdH">pic.twitter.com/5VfgyefjdH</a>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1636227038435590145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

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While many would have expected Prithvi Shaw to be named as Warner's deputy, Axar pipped Shaw to claim the post. The star Indian spin-bowling all-rounder has been in superb form with the bat of late. In the recently-concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2022/23, he ended as the third-highest run-getter (264 runs with three half-centuries) and claimed three wickets overall. He has been part of the DC camp since IPL 2019 and is now an integral part of their line-up, performing in all departments. Axar has 1,135 runs and 101 scalps overall.

Shaw, on the other hand, is also with the Delhi unit since his debut season, in 2018, and has the experience of leading Mumbai in the domestic circuit. He also led the India U-19 team to the World Cup title in 2018. The swashbuckling opener has amassed&nbsp;1,588 runs in 63 games.

Meanwhile, DC fans will pin their hopes on Warner in the upcoming season. He has led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to the championship in IPL 2016 and reads the game very well.&nbsp;

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition is set to kick off on March 31 with the four-time winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to face the defending champions Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) in the season opener in Ahmedabad.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition is set to kick off on March 31 with the four-time winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to face the defending champions Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) in the season opener in Ahmedabad. Talking about the Delhi Capitals (DC), they dealt with a huge blow when their regular skipper Rishabh Pant got involved in a horrific car crash last year. As the star Indian keeper-batter is out of action for quite some time, the Delhi camp recently named David Warner as their captain for IPL 2023. On March 16 (Thursday), the official Twitter handle of the DC franchise shared a tweet to share the news with one and all. While the Aussie opener Warner was named the captain, India's star all-rounder Axar Patel will serve as his deputy for the forthcoming edition. DC captioned the tweet, "David Warner (c), Axar Patel (vc) All set to roar loud this #IPL2023 under the leadership of these two dynamic southpaws". Check out the tweet: David Warner 👉🏼 (𝗖) Axar Patel 👉🏼 (𝗩𝗖) All set to roar loud this #IPL2023 under the leadership of these two dynamic southpaws 🐯#YehHaiNayiDilli | @davidwarner31 @akshar2026 pic.twitter.com/5VfgyefjdH — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) March 16, 2023 × Also read: WPL 2023: Virat Kohli's pep talk with Smriti Mandhana's RCB goes viral ahead of their first win - Watch While many would have expected Prithvi Shaw to be named as Warner's deputy, Axar pipped Shaw to claim the post. The star Indian spin-bowling all-rounder has been in superb form with the bat of late. In the recently-concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2022/23, he ended as the third-highest run-getter (264 runs with three half-centuries) and claimed three wickets overall. He has been part of the DC camp since IPL 2019 and is now an integral part of their line-up, performing in all departments. Axar has 1,135 runs and 101 scalps overall. Shaw, on the other hand, is also with the Delhi unit since his debut season, in 2018, and has the experience of leading Mumbai in the domestic circuit. He also led the India U-19 team to the World Cup title in 2018. The swashbuckling opener has amassed 1,588 runs in 63 games. Meanwhile, DC fans will pin their hopes on Warner in the upcoming season. He has led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to the championship in IPL 2016 and reads the game very well.

IPL 2023: Not Prithvi Shaw! Star Indian all-rounder named David Warner's deputy for Delhi Capitals

The end of the fifth day at the Narendra Modi stadium in Ahmedabad put curtains down on the marquee 2023 Border-Gavaskar series with India winning it (2-1) for the fourth straight time.

The end of the fifth day at the Narendra Modi stadium in Ahmedabad put curtains down on the marquee 2023 Border-Gavaskar series with India winning it (2-1) for the fourth straight time. Continuing their dominance at home the Indian spinners fared the best not only with the ball but also with the bat in hand. In this piece we will look at the top five players from the recently-concluded India vs Australia series. Ravindra Jadeja It’s not easy being Ravindran Jadeja. From remaining out of cricket for more than five months to winning the Player of the Series award for an all-round show upon returning to the side straightaway, only Jadeja could have done it. The left-arm maestro picked 22 wickets and scored 135 runs across four Tests to remain on top of the all-rounder's chart in the ICC rankings. In his first game since August 2022, Jadeja returned with a five-for in the first innings in Nagpur. He mounted pressure on Australia with a fighting 70 in the first innings before picking up two more wickets in the second innings to help India win the Test by an inning and 132 runs. His best performance, however, came in the following Test in Delhi where he picked his career-best figures of seven for 42 in the second innings, finishing with match figures of ten for 110, bagging yet another player of the match award. ALSO READ: BGT 2022/23: Axar Patel attains STAGGERING feat after India beat Australia 2-1 Axar Patel If there was an award for the game-changing inning in a Test, Axar would have won it not once, not twice but thrice, and that too for his batting and not bowling. India’s best player in this Border-Gavaskar series, Axar Patel impressed everyone with his batting display. Rather known and ranked as a specialised spinner, what Axar achieved with the bat in hand even promoted the Aussies to take a leaf out of his book. In Nagpur Axar scored a counter-attacking 84, whereas, in Delhi the left-handed batter completed yet another fifty, hitting 74 in the first innings. After a rare failure in the Indore Test, Axar returned with a 113-ball 79 in India’s first innings in the final Test. What’s exciting about these fifties – Axar scored the majority of these runs while India was struggling to put up runs on the board. Meanwhile, given these scores, Axar was not only India’s second-best batter in the series in terms of runs scored but was also the third-highest run-scorer (264 runs at an average of 88) after Usman Khawaja and Virat Kohli. He didn’t fare any well in bowling though picking up just three wickets. Ravichandran Ashwin There cannot be a discussion of the best players in a series in India without mentioning Ravi Ashwin’s name. The veteran spinner, for the nth time in his Test career, had an impactful series with the ball in hand. The off-spin legend was again the thorn in the flesh of the Aussies as he won the Player of the Series award alongside Jadeja for picking up the most wickets (25) this time. Throughout the series, Ashwin remained on the top of Australia and while he troubled them big time on the rank-turners in the first three Tests, he left an impression with a six-wicket haul in the final Test in Ahmedabad where the pitch refused to assist the spinners. ALSO READ: WTC Final: Reliving India's run in second cycle as they qualify for summit clash Nathan Lyon Called the best overseas spinner to have travelled to India in a very long time by the India captain Rohit Sharma, Nathan Lyon delivered what was expected out of him. Equalled with Jadeja in the wickets tally (22) in this series, Lyon, following a rusty start in the first match, tore into India’s middle-order in the Indore Test with his second eight-wicket haul in an inning in India. Despite being India's nemesis, even in Australia, Lyon got good support from the newcomers in Todd Murphy and Matthew Kuhnemann throughout the series as they returned with 14 and nine wickets, respectively. Meanwhile, with 116 wickets In the Border-Gavaskar series and 482 in Tests, Lyon stays ahead of India’s Ashwin on both lists. Usman Khawaja After warming benches during his previous two India tours, the left-handed Usman Khawaja finally got his turn this time, and he made the most of his chance. In a team full of batting superstars, Usman came good after early jitters in the first Test and remained on top by scoring the most runs among all batters. While Ashwin had his number on most of the occasions, Khawaja shined on two separate instances – one during the first innings in Delhi, where he scored a fighting 81 and then during the final Test in Ahmedabad, where he registered his maiden hundred on the Indian soil, hitting an incredible 180.

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: From Axar Patel to Nathan Lyon, here are the top five players of the series

India ended the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia by beating the visitors 2-1 after the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad, ended in a tame draw on Monday (March 13).&nbsp;The series saw India enter the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, where they will once again face Australia, on June 07, in order to win the coveted title. There were many top performers for India with the likes of captain Rohit Sharma, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel doing well in the four Tests. Talking about the spin-bowling all-rounder Axar, he saw his stocks rising as a batter with three crucial half-centuries. During the Ahmedabad Test, the local boy Axar achieved a massive feat on Day 5 of the series decider.&nbsp;

Axar became the fifth cricketer to hit 500 runs and take 50 wickets in 12 Tests. He now has 513 runs and 50 wickets in the purest format of the game. In addition, he became only the second Indian to achieve the historic feat after veteran R Ashwin (596 runs and 63 wickets).

The exclusive club is led by South Africa's Aubrey Faulkner (682 runs and 52 wickets), who is followed by Australia's Jack Gregory (744 runs and 57 wickets) and England great Ian Botham (549 runs and 70 wickets).

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Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh also lauded Axar for his performances in the 2022/23 BGT. "Well, he's been phenomenal with the bat. He didn't get too many chances with the ball in this particular series because Jadeja was doing the damage. Ashwin bowled well in the series. So, I feel as a batter, you know Axar coming at No.8 or 9 and scoring those winning knocks, 70 in Delhi and another one in Nagpur," Harbhajan told India Today.

"He put India ahead in this game by scoring those runs in quick fashion and, of course, good to see him evolving himself as an all-rounder more with the bat now, since he has got the opportunity and he is making the most of it and it's good to see that he's not shying away," Bhajji added.

Axar ended with 264 runs -- third-most overall -- along with three scalps in the just-concluded Australia Tests.&nbsp;

India ended the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia by beating the visitors 2-1 after the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad, ended in a tame draw on Monday (March 13).

India ended the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia by beating the visitors 2-1 after the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad, ended in a tame draw on Monday (March 13). The series saw India enter the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, where they will once again face Australia, on June 07, in order to win the coveted title. There were many top performers for India with the likes of captain Rohit Sharma, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel doing well in the four Tests. Talking about the spin-bowling all-rounder Axar, he saw his stocks rising as a batter with three crucial half-centuries. During the Ahmedabad Test, the local boy Axar achieved a massive feat on Day 5 of the series decider. Axar became the fifth cricketer to hit 500 runs and take 50 wickets in 12 Tests. He now has 513 runs and 50 wickets in the purest format of the game. In addition, he became only the second Indian to achieve the historic feat after veteran R Ashwin (596 runs and 63 wickets). The exclusive club is led by South Africa's Aubrey Faulkner (682 runs and 52 wickets), who is followed by Australia's Jack Gregory (744 runs and 57 wickets) and England great Ian Botham (549 runs and 70 wickets). Also read: Ind vs Aus: R Ashwin recalls conversation with Virat Kohli before former captain's Ahmedabad Test heroics Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh also lauded Axar for his performances in the 2022/23 BGT. "Well, he's been phenomenal with the bat. He didn't get too many chances with the ball in this particular series because Jadeja was doing the damage. Ashwin bowled well in the series. So, I feel as a batter, you know Axar coming at No.8 or 9 and scoring those winning knocks, 70 in Delhi and another one in Nagpur," Harbhajan told India Today. "He put India ahead in this game by scoring those runs in quick fashion and, of course, good to see him evolving himself as an all-rounder more with the bat now, since he has got the opportunity and he is making the most of it and it's good to see that he's not shying away," Bhajji added. Axar ended with 264 runs -- third-most overall -- along with three scalps in the just-concluded Australia Tests.

BGT 2022/23: Axar Patel attains STAGGERING feat after India beat Australia 2-1

Axar Patel has had an interesting run in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. So far, Axar has featured in all three Tests for Team India, versus Australia, on home soil. While he has only managed a solitary wicket in five innings, bowling 39 overs, he has led the charge with the bat -- coming with vital contributions down the order in the opening two games -- and is the second-highest run-getter of the 2022/23 BGT.

Axar is only behind skipper Rohit Sharma, who scored a majestic 120 in the series opener in Nagpur, with&nbsp;185 runs in four outings, at 92.50, including two fifties with a best of 84. He remained not-out in both innings in the Indore Test, where India's main batters fell flat versus the Aussie spinners. Nonetheless, there have been&nbsp;a few who have surprisingly called for his omission, to make way for Kuldeep Yadav in the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad.

Former Indian stumper and BCCI selector Saba Karim has backed Axar and feels his batting contributions have been one of the&nbsp;main reasons for India having an unassailable 2-1 lead in the four-match series.

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"India should continue playing Axar Patel," Karim said&nbsp;during a discussion on India News Sports. "India have a 2-1 lead in the series because Axar has batted really well. He hasn't had enough opportunities with the ball, as Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin, the two prime spinners, have bowled most of the overs."

"He doesn't deserve to sit out. Since Ahmedabad is his home ground, he knows the dimensions of the ground and the conditions very well," added Karim.

Axar will be gearing up to play on his home ground as India host Australia in the series decider, on Thursday (March 09) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. On debut, the left-arm spinner had taken a memorable 11-fer at the same venue in a day-night Test versus England, in 2021. He will be eager to replicate the same feat and lead India to a series win, and take them to the WTC final.

India need a win in the series finale to emerge on top by a 3-1 margin and also confirm their place in the WTC final. Australia already qualified with their nine-wicket win in the third Test in Indore.

Axar Patel has had an interesting run in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. So far, Axar has featured in all three Tests for Team India, versus Australia, on home soil.

Axar Patel has had an interesting run in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. So far, Axar has featured in all three Tests for Team India, versus Australia, on home soil. While he has only managed a solitary wicket in five innings, bowling 39 overs, he has led the charge with the bat -- coming with vital contributions down the order in the opening two games -- and is the second-highest run-getter of the 2022/23 BGT. Axar is only behind skipper Rohit Sharma, who scored a majestic 120 in the series opener in Nagpur, with 185 runs in four outings, at 92.50, including two fifties with a best of 84. He remained not-out in both innings in the Indore Test, where India's main batters fell flat versus the Aussie spinners. Nonetheless, there have been a few who have surprisingly called for his omission, to make way for Kuldeep Yadav in the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad. Former Indian stumper and BCCI selector Saba Karim has backed Axar and feels his batting contributions have been one of the main reasons for India having an unassailable 2-1 lead in the four-match series. Also read: BGT 2022/23: Won't appreciate Test matches finishing in 2.5 days, opines Gautam Gambhir "India should continue playing Axar Patel," Karim said during a discussion on India News Sports. "India have a 2-1 lead in the series because Axar has batted really well. He hasn't had enough opportunities with the ball, as Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin, the two prime spinners, have bowled most of the overs." "He doesn't deserve to sit out. Since Ahmedabad is his home ground, he knows the dimensions of the ground and the conditions very well," added Karim. Axar will be gearing up to play on his home ground as India host Australia in the series decider, on Thursday (March 09) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. On debut, the left-arm spinner had taken a memorable 11-fer at the same venue in a day-night Test versus England, in 2021. He will be eager to replicate the same feat and lead India to a series win, and take them to the WTC final. India need a win in the series finale to emerge on top by a 3-1 margin and also confirm their place in the WTC final. Australia already qualified with their nine-wicket win in the third Test in Indore.

India have a 2-1 lead because of him: Ex-India stumper backs star player ahead of 4th Test

It took a sheer piece of brilliance in the field by Australian skipper Pat Cummins to dismiss Indian spinner Axar Patel on day 2 of the second Test in Delhi as the left-arm spinner almost single-handedly denied the visitors a big lead in the first innings. Batting at 74 with nine fours and three maximums already to his name, Axar tried to whack a ball thorough mid-on off Todd Murphy, but only for Cummins to pull a one-handed stunner to dismiss him. Axar was the ninth Indian wicket to fall with the home team trailing by just four runs in the first innings. Have a look at the catch below:

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Have to appreciate Pat Cummins Catch <a href="https://t.co/KeoYV75IQl">pic.twitter.com/KeoYV75IQl</a>
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Earlier in the day, India were in soup with seven wicket down for a score of 139 runs in reply to Australia's first innings total of 263. Axar then joined forces with fellow spinner Ravi Ashwin and the duo added 114 runs for the right wicket before Ashwin was caught off Cummins by Renshaw at an individual score of 37. Axar also fell in the next over after hitting Murphy for a six but by then India were just four shy of Australia's first innings total. The southpaw scored 74 runs before going back to the hut, his second fifty in the series. India were finally bowled out for 262 runs and conceded one run lead in the first innings.&nbsp;

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India started the day well with openers Rahul and skipper Rohit resuming the innings. The first wicket to fall was Rahul on the team score of 46 and Rohit fell seven runs after. Pujara, who is playing is 100th test, fell for a duck and comeback batter Shreyas Iyer too departed soon as India were left four down at 66.

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Jadeja and Kohli then added 61 runs for the fifth wicket before India lost three more wickets for 14 runs to be left at seven down for 139. From Australia, Nathan Lyon took a five-for with Todd Murphy and debutant Matthew Kuhnemann picking two wickets apiece while skipper Pat Cummins picked one wicket. Australia were 61 for the loss of Khawaja at the end of day 2 with a total lead of 62 runs.

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It took a sheer piece of brilliance in the field by Australian skipper Pat Cummins to dismiss Indian spinner Axar Patel on day 2 of the second Test in Delhi as the left-arm spinner almost single-handedly denied the visitors a big lead in the first innings.

It took a sheer piece of brilliance in the field by Australian skipper Pat Cummins to dismiss Indian spinner Axar Patel on day 2 of the second Test in Delhi as the left-arm spinner almost single-handedly denied the visitors a big lead in the first innings. Batting at 74 with nine fours and three maximums already to his name, Axar tried to whack a ball thorough mid-on off Todd Murphy, but only for Cummins to pull a one-handed stunner to dismiss him. Axar was the ninth Indian wicket to fall with the home team trailing by just four runs in the first innings. Have a look at the catch below: Have to appreciate Pat Cummins Catch pic.twitter.com/KeoYV75IQl — Gorav Sharma (@RohitTheGoat) February 18, 2023 × Earlier in the day, India were in soup with seven wicket down for a score of 139 runs in reply to Australia's first innings total of 263. Axar then joined forces with fellow spinner Ravi Ashwin and the duo added 114 runs for the right wicket before Ashwin was caught off Cummins by Renshaw at an individual score of 37. Axar also fell in the next over after hitting Murphy for a six but by then India were just four shy of Australia's first innings total. The southpaw scored 74 runs before going back to the hut, his second fifty in the series. India were finally bowled out for 262 runs and conceded one run lead in the first innings. Also Read: IND vs AUS, 2nd Test, Day 2: Batter Axar Patel saves India's sinking ship following Nathan Lyon's magic India started the day well with openers Rahul and skipper Rohit resuming the innings. The first wicket to fall was Rahul on the team score of 46 and Rohit fell seven runs after. Pujara, who is playing is 100th test, fell for a duck and comeback batter Shreyas Iyer too departed soon as India were left four down at 66. Read More: KKR 2023 IPL full schedule: Check Kolkata Knight Riders fixture, date, time, venues, captain & full squad Jadeja and Kohli then added 61 runs for the fifth wicket before India lost three more wickets for 14 runs to be left at seven down for 139. From Australia, Nathan Lyon took a five-for with Todd Murphy and debutant Matthew Kuhnemann picking two wickets apiece while skipper Pat Cummins picked one wicket. Australia were 61 for the loss of Khawaja at the end of day 2 with a total lead of 62 runs. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India vs Australia, 2nd Test: Pat Cummins pulls blinder to send Axar Patel packing - Watch

India’s bowling all-rounder Axar Patel produced a stunning 74 on a fighting track and helped India stay afloat&nbsp;in the match on day two of the second Test in Delhi. While the first two sessions largely belonged to&nbsp;Nathan Lyon – who spun his web around the Indian batters picking up a five-for, Axar and Ravi Ashwin’s 114-run stand for the eighth wicket made the headlines for all right reason. For the second straight Test, Axar played a masterful knock lower down the order bailing his team out of trouble. Lately been known for his power hitting, Axar scored nine fours and three sixes in his yet game-changing knock for India in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series.

India started the day with ten wickets in hand and with both openers looking determined to deliver with the bat. This thought didn’t age well as Nathan Lyon first removed struggling KL Rahul, and then picked captain Rohit and Cheteshwar Pujara in quick succession.&nbsp;

Making a comeback into the team after recovering from the back injury, Shreyas Iyer also didn’t fare well with the bat, getting out on four off 15 balls. Former skipper Virat held one end and with Ravindra Jadeja on the other, both started building a partnership.

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Post lunch, first-match hero for the Aussies, Todd Murphy got rid of Jadeja while Kuhnemann picked the prized wicket of Kohli on 44. It was about time before the newcomer KS Bharat also returned for yet another poor score of six, off Lyon again.

Come in Axar and Ashwin, the duo who weathered the spin storm coming their way. Deploying a smart yet attacking approach, both took on the bowling attack and unleashed some good-looking shots. In no time, they closed in the gap with the Aussies' first innings total&nbsp;and put India’s nose ahead, at least in the&nbsp;last session. It couldn’t last for long either&nbsp;Lyon completed his five-wicket haul and Australia wrapped up India’s innings on 262 – just one run shy of&nbsp;Australia’s 263.

Meanwhile, Australia’s second innings didn’t start as bad as it did previously. In absence of David Warner – who got subbed off for concussion and got replaced by Matt Renshaw for the remainder of the Test, Travis Head and Usman Khawaja opened the innings. The pair looked comfortable before Jadeja broke the partnership by removing Khawaja on six.&nbsp;

Labuschagne and Head then pressed the fifth gear and began targeting spinners, hitting them for odd boundaries every over. Australia ended day two with 61 for one in 12 overs.

India’s bowling all-rounder Axar Patel produced a stunning 74 on a fighting track and helped India stay afloat in the match on day two of the second Test in Delhi.

India’s bowling all-rounder Axar Patel produced a stunning 74 on a fighting track and helped India stay afloat in the match on day two of the second Test in Delhi. While the first two sessions largely belonged to Nathan Lyon – who spun his web around the Indian batters picking up a five-for, Axar and Ravi Ashwin’s 114-run stand for the eighth wicket made the headlines for all right reason. For the second straight Test, Axar played a masterful knock lower down the order bailing his team out of trouble. Lately been known for his power hitting, Axar scored nine fours and three sixes in his yet game-changing knock for India in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series. India started the day with ten wickets in hand and with both openers looking determined to deliver with the bat. This thought didn’t age well as Nathan Lyon first removed struggling KL Rahul, and then picked captain Rohit and Cheteshwar Pujara in quick succession. Making a comeback into the team after recovering from the back injury, Shreyas Iyer also didn’t fare well with the bat, getting out on four off 15 balls. Former skipper Virat held one end and with Ravindra Jadeja on the other, both started building a partnership. ALSO READ: Smriti Mandhana to captain Royal Challengers Bangalore in maiden WPL edition Post lunch, first-match hero for the Aussies, Todd Murphy got rid of Jadeja while Kuhnemann picked the prized wicket of Kohli on 44. It was about time before the newcomer KS Bharat also returned for yet another poor score of six, off Lyon again. Come in Axar and Ashwin, the duo who weathered the spin storm coming their way. Deploying a smart yet attacking approach, both took on the bowling attack and unleashed some good-looking shots. In no time, they closed in the gap with the Aussies' first innings total and put India’s nose ahead, at least in the last session. It couldn’t last for long either Lyon completed his five-wicket haul and Australia wrapped up India’s innings on 262 – just one run shy of Australia’s 263. Meanwhile, Australia’s second innings didn’t start as bad as it did previously. In absence of David Warner – who got subbed off for concussion and got replaced by Matt Renshaw for the remainder of the Test, Travis Head and Usman Khawaja opened the innings. The pair looked comfortable before Jadeja broke the partnership by removing Khawaja on six. Labuschagne and Head then pressed the fifth gear and began targeting spinners, hitting them for odd boundaries every over. Australia ended day two with 61 for one in 12 overs.

IND vs AUS, 2nd Test, Day 2: Batter Axar Patel saves India's sinking ship following Nathan Lyon's magic

India are in full control of the first day at the end the second day of Nagpur test against Australia with skipper Rohit Sharma leading from the front with 120.

India were 321-7 at stumps, leading by 144 runs,&nbsp;with all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel unbeaten on 66 and 52, respectively. The pair put on an unbeaten stand of 81 for the eighth wicket.

Todd Murphy, the 22-year-old debutant&nbsp;took regular wickets with his off-spin in his attempt to check India's surge but Jadeja kept up the charge following Rohit's dismissal soon after tea. Murphy, nonetheless, ended with a five-for to make the debut remarkable.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-1st-test-rohit-sharma-has-sown-the-seeds-of-fear-in-pat-cumminss-head-feels-ajay-jadeja-560632">IND vs AUS, 1st Test: Rohit Sharma has sown the seeds of fear in Pat Cummins' head, feels Ajay Jadeja</a>

Rohit led from the front with his ninth&nbsp;Test&nbsp;century to extend India's dominance after they dismissed Australia for 177 on day one of the four-Test&nbsp;series.

The captain defied the spinners to reach his hundred with a boundary off Murphy in the second session, and took off his helmet to soak in the applause.

He put on a key 61-run sixth-wicket stand with Jadeja, who stood firm after Rohit's departure to register a fifty after his five wickets in the Australian innings.

Jadeja, who has three&nbsp;Test&nbsp;hundreds, did his trademark sword swish with the bat to mark his 18th half-century in the five-day format.

Murphy stood out for the tourists with remarkable control to knock off the stalwarts of Indian cricket including Virat Kohli, caught behind for 12.

Murphy, who claimed KL Rahul as his first&nbsp;Test&nbsp;wicket on Thursday, trapped Ravichandran Ashwin lbw and got Cheteshwar Pujara caught at short fine leg in the first session.

Senior Australia spinner Nathan Lyon spoiled Twenty20 sensation Suryakumar Yadav's&nbsp;Test&nbsp;debut after he bowled the batsman on eight to put India in a spot at 168-5.

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-virat-kohli-gets-dismissed-for-cheap-after-lunch-break-on-day-2-of-1st-test-watch-560594">IND vs AUS: Virat Kohli gets dismissed for cheap after lunch break on Day 2 of 1st Test - Watch</a>

But Rohit, who started the day on his overnight 56 and smashed Pat Cummins and Lyon for a six each, and Jadeja soon swung back the momentum with a mix of caution and aggression.

Cummins took the second new ball after tea to send back Rohit bowled, one ball after he was dropped by Steve Smith at second slip.

Murphy soon bagged his fifth as he trapped fellow debutant Srikar Bharat lbw -- a decision that was given not out by the umpire but successfully reviewed by Australia.

Jadeja, who returned from a knee injury with a 5-47 on Thursday, soldiered on with Patel as they frustrated the opposition attack in the final hour of play.

Axar smashed eight boundaries&nbsp;en route to his second&nbsp;Test&nbsp;fifty.

(With inputs from agencies)

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India are in full control of the first day at the end the second day of Nagpur test against Australia with skipper Rohit Sharma leading from the front with 120. India were 321-7 at stumps, leading by 144 runs, with all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel unbeaten on 66 and 52, respectively.

India are in full control of the first day at the end the second day of Nagpur test against Australia with skipper Rohit Sharma leading from the front with 120. India were 321-7 at stumps, leading by 144 runs, with all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel unbeaten on 66 and 52, respectively. The pair put on an unbeaten stand of 81 for the eighth wicket. Todd Murphy, the 22-year-old debutant took regular wickets with his off-spin in his attempt to check India's surge but Jadeja kept up the charge following Rohit's dismissal soon after tea. Murphy, nonetheless, ended with a five-for to make the debut remarkable. Also Read: IND vs AUS, 1st Test: Rohit Sharma has sown the seeds of fear in Pat Cummins' head, feels Ajay Jadeja Rohit led from the front with his ninth Test century to extend India's dominance after they dismissed Australia for 177 on day one of the four-Test series. The captain defied the spinners to reach his hundred with a boundary off Murphy in the second session, and took off his helmet to soak in the applause. He put on a key 61-run sixth-wicket stand with Jadeja, who stood firm after Rohit's departure to register a fifty after his five wickets in the Australian innings. Jadeja, who has three Test hundreds, did his trademark sword swish with the bat to mark his 18th half-century in the five-day format. Murphy stood out for the tourists with remarkable control to knock off the stalwarts of Indian cricket including Virat Kohli, caught behind for 12. Murphy, who claimed KL Rahul as his first Test wicket on Thursday, trapped Ravichandran Ashwin lbw and got Cheteshwar Pujara caught at short fine leg in the first session. Senior Australia spinner Nathan Lyon spoiled Twenty20 sensation Suryakumar Yadav's Test debut after he bowled the batsman on eight to put India in a spot at 168-5. Read More: IND vs AUS: Virat Kohli gets dismissed for cheap after lunch break on Day 2 of 1st Test - Watch But Rohit, who started the day on his overnight 56 and smashed Pat Cummins and Lyon for a six each, and Jadeja soon swung back the momentum with a mix of caution and aggression. Cummins took the second new ball after tea to send back Rohit bowled, one ball after he was dropped by Steve Smith at second slip. Murphy soon bagged his fifth as he trapped fellow debutant Srikar Bharat lbw -- a decision that was given not out by the umpire but successfully reviewed by Australia. Jadeja, who returned from a knee injury with a 5-47 on Thursday, soldiered on with Patel as they frustrated the opposition attack in the final hour of play. Axar smashed eight boundaries en route to his second Test fifty. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ind vs Aus, 1st Test, Day 2: Rohit, Jadeja, Axar ensure India wrests control, Murphy bags five on debut

Sri Lanka won the second T20I against India in Pune by 16 runs to level the series three-match series 1-1. Despite twin fifties from Suryakumar Yadav and Axar Patel, India failed to chase down 206 in Pune.

The Men in Blue&nbsp;decided to bowl first after winning the toss. Sri Lankan openers started off brilliantly with Pathum Nissanka hitting 33 while Kusal Mendis completing his half century in 30 balls. Though three quick wickets in the middle overs did pull back their game, the Lankans remained determined to put up a handsome total on the board.

While going after the spinners looked the like the best option on this pitch, the visitors struggled to sniff past Umran Malik, who picked up three wickets for 48 runs. With Dasun Shanaka on the crease, Sri Lanka knew something big is about to come.

Striking at 254.55, the right-handed batter smoked six sixes and two fours en-route to his 22-ball 56. Courtesy of his magnificent knock, Sri Lanka managed a whopping 206 for six in 20 overs.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-right-people-around-me-helped-me-taste-success-varun-kapur-ex-world-no-1-in-junior-rankings-549773">EXCLUSIVE - Right people around me helped me taste success – Varun Kapur, ex-World No 1 in Junior Rankings</a>

India got off to a shaky start on the other hand losing four wickets inside the Powerplay including that of Hardik Pandya. Deepak Hooda soon followed as India looked in trouble with the scorecard reading 57 for five in 9.1 overs.

The pair of Suryakumar Yadav and all-rounder Axar Patel then began the rescue act. While SKY, as Surya’s fans often call him, was holding onto one end, Patel unleashed flurry of sixes, completing&nbsp;his fifty in 20 balls. As soon as it started to look like India could get there, Madushanka dismissed the dangerous Suryakumar on 51.

New comer Shivam Mavi also slammed a few sixes but that weren't enough as Sri Lanka narrowly escaped late blitz from India to win the second match by 16 runs. Axar Patel was the star with the bat in hand&nbsp;for India, hitting his career-best 65 off 31 balls, that included six sixes and three fours.

The decider of the series will be played in Rajkot on Saturday, January 7th.

Sri Lanka won the second T20I against India in Pune by 16 runs to level the series three-match series 1-1. Despite twin fifties from Suryakumar Yadav and Axar Patel, India failed to chase down 206 in Pune.

Sri Lanka won the second T20I against India in Pune by 16 runs to level the series three-match series 1-1. Despite twin fifties from Suryakumar Yadav and Axar Patel, India failed to chase down 206 in Pune. The Men in Blue decided to bowl first after winning the toss. Sri Lankan openers started off brilliantly with Pathum Nissanka hitting 33 while Kusal Mendis completing his half century in 30 balls. Though three quick wickets in the middle overs did pull back their game, the Lankans remained determined to put up a handsome total on the board. While going after the spinners looked the like the best option on this pitch, the visitors struggled to sniff past Umran Malik, who picked up three wickets for 48 runs. With Dasun Shanaka on the crease, Sri Lanka knew something big is about to come. Striking at 254.55, the right-handed batter smoked six sixes and two fours en-route to his 22-ball 56. Courtesy of his magnificent knock, Sri Lanka managed a whopping 206 for six in 20 overs. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE - Right people around me helped me taste success – Varun Kapur, ex-World No 1 in Junior Rankings India got off to a shaky start on the other hand losing four wickets inside the Powerplay including that of Hardik Pandya. Deepak Hooda soon followed as India looked in trouble with the scorecard reading 57 for five in 9.1 overs. The pair of Suryakumar Yadav and all-rounder Axar Patel then began the rescue act. While SKY, as Surya’s fans often call him, was holding onto one end, Patel unleashed flurry of sixes, completing his fifty in 20 balls. As soon as it started to look like India could get there, Madushanka dismissed the dangerous Suryakumar on 51. New comer Shivam Mavi also slammed a few sixes but that weren't enough as Sri Lanka narrowly escaped late blitz from India to win the second match by 16 runs. Axar Patel was the star with the bat in hand for India, hitting his career-best 65 off 31 balls, that included six sixes and three fours. The decider of the series will be played in Rajkot on Saturday, January 7th.

IND vs SL 2023, 2nd T20I: Sri Lanka narrowly escape Axar Patel's late blitz to level series in Pune

India's No. 3 Cheteshwar Pujara revealed the reason behind&nbsp;team management's plan to promote Axar Patel ahead of Virat Kohli in the batting order during their nervy 145-run chase versus Bangladesh in the just-concluded second and final Test in Dhaka. With India being reduced to 12 for 2 in the final session on Day 3, many expected Kohli to walk out at his usual batting slot; i.e. No. 4.

Nonetheless, the Rahul Dravid-led team management surprised one and all and sent out Axar. Sunil Gavaskar, the former Indian opener-turned-commentator, wasn't impressed with the move and told on Sony Sports, "It didn't send a good message to Kohli. He is the best batsman in the world. Unless Kohli himself asked for it, then it's a different matter. We don't know what happened in the changing room. But it's hard to understand. Axar has played well, of course."

Jadeja,&nbsp;part of the Hindi panel, opined, "He is the world's best player. 15 overs were left. Saba Karim said it could have been because of the left-right combination, which is an obvious thought, but then I feel - did Rishabh Pant take a sleeping pill? I will also say that it is easy for us to say this from here; we don't know if someone was not feeling well."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ban-vs-ind-2022-he-is-doing-great-job-for-the-teamcaptain-kl-rahul-hails-star-performer-after-series-win-546500">BAN vs IND 2022: 'He is doing great job for the team...'captain KL Rahul hails star performer after series win</a>

Pujara, who won&nbsp;the Player-of-the-Series award, opened up on the move after the series triumph. Talking to the broadcasters, he gave an insight behind Axar's promotion and said, "It was a very good move because among their three strike bowlers, two were left-arm spinners. Axar is a left-hander, so he was sent to tackle them and to have a batter who can bat sensibly in the initial period against the Kookaburra ball. It was a crucial move for us. That was an important phase of the game where we didn't want to lose too many wickets in the evening, and he could have batted cautiously. So I was not surprised. When you are chasing a 145-run total, every run is important, and the way he batted, his innings was very valuable for us."

The left-handed Axar played a cautious 69-ball 34 whereas Kohli departed for 1 during India's three-wicket win over the Bangla Tigers. Shreyas Iyer's 29 not out and R Ashwin's 62-ball 42* held their nerves and took India home after they were reeling at 74-7 in the morning session of Day 4.

India's No. 3 Cheteshwar Pujara revealed the reason behind team management's plan to promote Axar Patel ahead of Virat Kohli in the batting order during their nervy 145-run chase versus Bangladesh in the just-concluded second and final Test in Dhaka.

India's No. 3 Cheteshwar Pujara revealed the reason behind team management's plan to promote Axar Patel ahead of Virat Kohli in the batting order during their nervy 145-run chase versus Bangladesh in the just-concluded second and final Test in Dhaka. With India being reduced to 12 for 2 in the final session on Day 3, many expected Kohli to walk out at his usual batting slot; i.e. No. 4. Nonetheless, the Rahul Dravid-led team management surprised one and all and sent out Axar. Sunil Gavaskar, the former Indian opener-turned-commentator, wasn't impressed with the move and told on Sony Sports, "It didn't send a good message to Kohli. He is the best batsman in the world. Unless Kohli himself asked for it, then it's a different matter. We don't know what happened in the changing room. But it's hard to understand. Axar has played well, of course." Jadeja, part of the Hindi panel, opined, "He is the world's best player. 15 overs were left. Saba Karim said it could have been because of the left-right combination, which is an obvious thought, but then I feel - did Rishabh Pant take a sleeping pill? I will also say that it is easy for us to say this from here; we don't know if someone was not feeling well." Also read: BAN vs IND 2022: 'He is doing great job for the team...'captain KL Rahul hails star performer after series win Pujara, who won the Player-of-the-Series award, opened up on the move after the series triumph. Talking to the broadcasters, he gave an insight behind Axar's promotion and said, "It was a very good move because among their three strike bowlers, two were left-arm spinners. Axar is a left-hander, so he was sent to tackle them and to have a batter who can bat sensibly in the initial period against the Kookaburra ball. It was a crucial move for us. That was an important phase of the game where we didn't want to lose too many wickets in the evening, and he could have batted cautiously. So I was not surprised. When you are chasing a 145-run total, every run is important, and the way he batted, his innings was very valuable for us." The left-handed Axar played a cautious 69-ball 34 whereas Kohli departed for 1 during India's three-wicket win over the Bangla Tigers. Shreyas Iyer's 29 not out and R Ashwin's 62-ball 42* held their nerves and took India home after they were reeling at 74-7 in the morning session of Day 4.

BAN vs IND: 'He was sent to...' - Pujara on why Axar Patel was promoted ahead of Virat Kohli in 2nd Test

India wrapped up Bangladesh's second innings on 324 inside the first session on&nbsp;day 4 to win the Chattogram Test by 188 runs and take a 1-0 lead in the 2-match series. Spinners Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav rescued India after Bangladesh started off well in their chase of 493 on the previous day.

While Kuldeep finished the match with 8 wickets to his name, including a record-breaking five-for in the first innings, Axar picked up 4 wickets in the second innings to hand India a much-needed win.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-women-v-australia-women-4th-t20i-india-lose-by-7-runs-australia-take-unassailable-3-1-lead-544105">India women v Australia women: 4th T20I: India lose by 7 runs, Australia take unassailable 3-1 lead</a>

Batting first, India scored 404 with three of its players completing fifties including Cheteshwar Pujara, Sheryas Iyer and bowling all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin. Making his return to the Test side after nearly 22 months, Kuldeep also contributed with the bat with a crucial 40.

While bowling, he spun the web around the Bangladeshi batsmen, picking up his maiden five-wicket haul against them&nbsp;in Tests. India, after dismissing Bangladesh on a mere 150 in their first innings decided to&nbsp;bat again.

This time, the young opener Shubman Gill slammed his first Test hundred&nbsp;with Pujara also ending his century drought in Tests with a stunning 102* off 130. India declared on 258-2 and gave the hosts a monumental target of 493 to chase.

In the fourth innings, debutant&nbsp;Zakir Hasan scored his maiden Test hundred while his fellow opener Najmul Hossain Shanto also played a handy role with an important 67. It was only about time before wickets started to fall and despite little resistance from skipper Shakib Al Hasan who hit an impressive 84, Bangladesh fell short of the target by 188 runs.

The second match of the series will begin on 22nd December in Dhaka.

India wrapped up Bangladesh's second innings on 324 inside the first session on day 4 to win the Chattogram Test by 188 runs and take a 1-0 lead in the 2-match series.

India wrapped up Bangladesh's second innings on 324 inside the first session on day 4 to win the Chattogram Test by 188 runs and take a 1-0 lead in the 2-match series. Spinners Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav rescued India after Bangladesh started off well in their chase of 493 on the previous day. While Kuldeep finished the match with 8 wickets to his name, including a record-breaking five-for in the first innings, Axar picked up 4 wickets in the second innings to hand India a much-needed win. ALSO READ: India women v Australia women: 4th T20I: India lose by 7 runs, Australia take unassailable 3-1 lead Batting first, India scored 404 with three of its players completing fifties including Cheteshwar Pujara, Sheryas Iyer and bowling all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin. Making his return to the Test side after nearly 22 months, Kuldeep also contributed with the bat with a crucial 40. While bowling, he spun the web around the Bangladeshi batsmen, picking up his maiden five-wicket haul against them in Tests. India, after dismissing Bangladesh on a mere 150 in their first innings decided to bat again. This time, the young opener Shubman Gill slammed his first Test hundred with Pujara also ending his century drought in Tests with a stunning 102* off 130. India declared on 258-2 and gave the hosts a monumental target of 493 to chase. In the fourth innings, debutant Zakir Hasan scored his maiden Test hundred while his fellow opener Najmul Hossain Shanto also played a handy role with an important 67. It was only about time before wickets started to fall and despite little resistance from skipper Shakib Al Hasan who hit an impressive 84, Bangladesh fell short of the target by 188 runs. The second match of the series will begin on 22nd December in Dhaka.

BAN vs IND 2022, 1st Test: Kuldeep Yadav, Shubman Gill shine in India's 188-run win over Bangladesh

After the disappointments of the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, Team India is now gearing up for their upcoming three-match T20I series versus hosts New Zealand. With many regulars not being part of the tour, Hardik Pandya will lead the side with Rishabh Pant as his deputy.

With a semi-final defeat in the recently-concluded T20 WC, in Australia, India will now look to revamp and restart with the next edition of the World Cup to be held in 2024. The NZ series can give a sneak peak into the mindset of the team. With regular skipper Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli and others not part of the tour, the young batters&nbsp;are expected to take more responsibility and get more chances at the top order. Amid all this, former Indian batter Robin Uthappa has suggested a new batting slot for Pant.

"The next World Cup is in two years' time. So, keeping the conditions there in mind, I feel Rishabh Pant should bat in the top 3," he told&nbsp;Sportskeeda. "If you look at his IPL records, his best performances have come when he has opened or when he has batted at No. 3. So, you have to give him the opportunity to become a match-winner in that position," he further opined.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/everything-is-fine-ravindra-jadeja-shuns-rift-rumours-with-ms-dhoni-led-csk-after-being-retained-534500">'Everything is fine': Ravindra Jadeja shuns rift rumours with MS Dhoni-led CSK after being retained</a>

Pant featured in only two games for India in the T20 WC 2022 edition. So far, the swashbuckling left-hander hasn't done anything extra ordinary in the shortest format and will hope to get going from the opening match itself versus the Kiwis. He has played 64 T20Is and has managed 970 runs at a strike rate of&nbsp;127.12.

The first T20I kicks off on November 18 at&nbsp;Sky Stadium, Wellington.

Squad for NZ T20Is: Hardik Pandya (C), Rishabh Pant (VC &amp; wk), Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Surya Kumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Sanju Samson (wk), W Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Umran Malik.

Squad for NZ ODIs:&nbsp;Shikhar Dhawan (C), Rishabh Pant (VC &amp; wk), Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Surya Kumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Sanju Samson (wk), W Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Shahbaz Ahmed, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Deepak Chahar, Kuldeep Sen, Umran Malik.

After the disappointments of the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, Team India is now gearing up for their upcoming three-match T20I series versus hosts New Zealand. With many regulars not being part of the tour, Hardik Pandya will lead the side with Rishabh Pant as his deputy.

After the disappointments of the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, Team India is now gearing up for their upcoming three-match T20I series versus hosts New Zealand. With many regulars not being part of the tour, Hardik Pandya will lead the side with Rishabh Pant as his deputy. With a semi-final defeat in the recently-concluded T20 WC, in Australia, India will now look to revamp and restart with the next edition of the World Cup to be held in 2024. The NZ series can give a sneak peak into the mindset of the team. With regular skipper Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli and others not part of the tour, the young batters are expected to take more responsibility and get more chances at the top order. Amid all this, former Indian batter Robin Uthappa has suggested a new batting slot for Pant. "The next World Cup is in two years' time. So, keeping the conditions there in mind, I feel Rishabh Pant should bat in the top 3," he told Sportskeeda. "If you look at his IPL records, his best performances have come when he has opened or when he has batted at No. 3. So, you have to give him the opportunity to become a match-winner in that position," he further opined. Also read: 'Everything is fine': Ravindra Jadeja shuns rift rumours with MS Dhoni-led CSK after being retained Pant featured in only two games for India in the T20 WC 2022 edition. So far, the swashbuckling left-hander hasn't done anything extra ordinary in the shortest format and will hope to get going from the opening match itself versus the Kiwis. He has played 64 T20Is and has managed 970 runs at a strike rate of 127.12. The first T20I kicks off on November 18 at Sky Stadium, Wellington. Squad for NZ T20Is: Hardik Pandya (C), Rishabh Pant (VC & wk), Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Surya Kumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Sanju Samson (wk), W Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Umran Malik. Squad for NZ ODIs: Shikhar Dhawan (C), Rishabh Pant (VC & wk), Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Surya Kumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Sanju Samson (wk), W Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Shahbaz Ahmed, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Deepak Chahar, Kuldeep Sen, Umran Malik.

'His best performances have...' - Ex-India batter suggests batting spot for Rishabh Pant ahead of NZ T20Is

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