IND vs. AUS 3rd ODI: In a disappointing turn of events for Team India, all-rounder Axar Patel has been ruled out of the upcoming third One Day International (ODI) against Australia due to a persistent left quadriceps injury. The news comes as a blow to Indian cricket enthusiasts who were eager to see him back in action.
Axar Patel’s tryst with injury began during the Asia Cup 2023, where he sustained a left quadriceps injury while representing India. This setback forced him to miss the initial two ODIs against Australia in Mohali and Indore. Despite hopes of a swift recovery, the left-arm spinner has not made the progress required to join the squad for the crucial third ODI, which is set to take place in Rajkot.
Washington Sundar, who admirably filled in for Axar Patel during the Asia Cup 2023 final against Sri Lanka, will continue to be his replacement for the ongoing ODI series against Australia. The talented Ravichandran Ashwin has also been called in to bolster the squad in Axar’s absence.
R Ashwin will continue to feature in India’s Playing XI
Fans and pundits alike have been closely watching Ashwin’s performance in the series, and he hasn’t disappointed. Securing four wickets and showcasing impeccable bowling skills, Ashwin has put forth a strong case for his inclusion in the World Cup squad. However, sources within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) suggest that Axar Patel, who was initially chosen over Ashwin, is still on track for a timely return to the Indian team, ideally in time for the World Cup.
Despite this setback, there’s a glimmer of hope on the horizon. Axar Patel could potentially make a comeback to the Indian team just ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 warm-up matches, scheduled for later this week. The first warm-up game will see India face England in Guwahati on Saturday.
Axar’s fitness status remains a significant concern for the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar. Should Axar fail to recover in time for the World Cup, the selectors might have to choose between Ashwin and Washington Sundar as the backup spinner-cum-all-rounder for the squad.
Shubman & Shardul too have rested for the IND vs AUS 3rd ODI
In addition to Axar Patel, India has decided to rest batters Shubman Gill and Shardul Thakur for the upcoming third ODI against Australia in Rajkot. The return of regular captain Rohit Sharma, along with stalwarts Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah, is eagerly anticipated, as they aim to seal the series with a victory. India currently leads the three-match ODI series after impressive wins in Mohali and Indore last week.
While Axar Patel’s absence is undoubtedly a setback for Team India, fans will be hoping for his swift recovery and return to the squad, possibly in time to make a mark in the forthcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023.
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