Axar Patel finds himself at the forefront of India’s latest transition phase, ready to embrace a more significant role in the team’s evolution.
The 31-year-old, a proven match-winner with age on his side, has been entrusted with the vice-captaincy for the T20I side as India builds towards a home World Cup next year. Despite the added responsibility, Axar remains grounded, focusing on his performance rather than overthinking his role or the team’s shifting dynamics.
“Yes, the transition is happening, but that’s for the selectors and captain to decide,” Axar said in Kolkata ahead of India’s five-match T20I series against England. “I just focus on doing well in the opportunities, whether T20s, ODIs, or Tests. If I’m given a specific role during this phase, I’ll work on how best to fulfil it. My aim is always to improve and contribute, reports Live Cricket Score.
On being appointed vice-captain, Axar acknowledged the weight of his new position but maintained his composed outlook.
“Of course, there’s added responsibility now as part of the leadership group,” he said. “Our T20 team is relatively settled, so the pressure isn’t overwhelming. But as a leader, you must make critical decisions. I’ll work closely with Surya [Suryakumar Yadav], and if inputs are needed during games, I’ll be there to offer them. The key is trust and genuine discussions within the leadership group.”
Axar was notably absent from the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia despite being a pivotal figure in the previous series. Yet, he takes such decisions in stride, focusing on what lies within his control.
“I don’t dwell on selections,” Axar remarked. “Team combinations and strategies play a big role, so I concentrate on how I can contribute when I’m part of the squad. Whether playing or not, I always focus on adding value to the team.”
Axar’s vision aligns seamlessly with captain Suryakumar Yadav’s approach. Both advocate flexibility in the batting order, allowing players to adapt and express themselves based on game situations.
“Our target is clear,” Axar explained. “We want to fine-tune our approach to prepare for the World Cup next year. Momentum is key in cricket, and we aim to carry forward the positives from our recent performances as the series wins in South Africa. It’s about understanding and building on what has worked for us.”
Flexibility, Axar added, will remain a cornerstone of India’s T20 strategy, especially in the middle and lower order.
“Batting positions, especially from No. 3 to No. 7, aren’t fixed,” he noted. “It depends on match situations—like which bowler might trouble a particular batter—and who’s best suited to that moment. Everyone is expected to adapt, whether finishing the innings or stepping up the order when needed. That’s how we’ll approach this series and beyond.”
India’s T20 campaign against England begins at the iconic Eden Gardens on January 22, with Axar Patel stepping confidently into his role as vice-captain and key all-rounder for the team’s future ambitions.
