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Axar Patel hints at flexible middle order ahead of T20I series against England

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India’s vice-captain Axar Patel has emphasized the importance of flexibility in the middle order as the team gears up for the five-match T20I series against England, starting Wednesday at Eden Gardens. Axar highlighted that aside from the openers, the rest of the batting lineup will adapt to match situations, prioritizing quick decision-making in the fast-paced format.

Axar, who has excelled in a floater role recently, spoke about India’s approach to maximizing their batting potential. “The openers are fixed, but everyone from No. 3 to 7 can be called upon to bat in any situation depending on matchups, bowlers, and game conditions,” Axar told reporters on Monday. He added, “It’s not just about one player sticking to one position. This flexibility allows us to adapt and make the most of the opportunities.”

The strategy is not limited to Axar alone; players like Hardik Pandya, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, and captain Suryakumar Yadav have also been used as floaters to strengthen the middle order.

Axar’s performance has seen significant improvement over the past two years. Until the end of 2022, he averaged 21.26 with a strike rate of 131.25 in T20s. Since 2023, these numbers have surged to an average of 30.32 and a strike rate of 145.62. His versatility has been evident, with the southpaw scoring six fifties in the last two years while batting at various positions, including No. 3, 4, 6, and 7.

Stepping into the role of vice-captain, Axar acknowledged the additional responsibility of supporting skipper Suryakumar Yadav. “As part of the leadership group, there’s an extra responsibility. The T20I side is settled, so there isn’t much pressure, but I need to make quick decisions and work closely with Suryakumar during the game,” Axar said.

He also stressed the importance of learning to make difficult calls. “We’ve spoken about sharing genuine opinions to build trust in the group. The T20 format moves so fast that decision-making is crucial, and we’re focusing on improving that aspect with the coaches,” he added.

The T20I series, followed by a three-match ODI series, will serve as an opportunity for India to fine-tune their combination ahead of next month’s ICC Champions Trophy. The squad for the series resembles the one that toured South Africa in November, providing continuity and a chance to build on previous performances.

India squad for T20I series against England: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel (vc), Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammad Shami, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Washington Sundar, Dhruv Jurel (wk).

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