Former India batter Aakash Chopra has expressed his thoughts on Axar Patel’s recent ODI performances, highlighting that while his numbers have improved, many of his matches were against relatively weaker teams. Axar, known for his valuable contributions in the lower order, has been a significant asset to India’s white-ball lineup in recent years.

In a candid discussion on his YouTube channel, Chopra acknowledged Axar Patel’s improved batting and bowling averages. 

He stated, “Axar Patel’s batting and bowling average has improved. But let’s be honest – a lot of his games have been against slightly weaker teams.” 

Since the 2019 World Cup, Axar has amassed 300 runs in 14 ODIs, with an impressive average of 30 and a strike rate of 106, including two fifties. Follow your favourite cricket team with attractive betting tips from Nextbet. 

However, Chopra emphasized that a significant portion of these matches was against teams like West Indies, Zimbabwe, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, raising questions about his performance against stronger opponents.

When evaluating Axar’s bowling, Chopra drew comparisons to Ravindra Jadeja, noting that their numbers are quite similar. 

He explained, “In bowling, since the 2019 World Cup, in 15 innings he has claimed 14 wickets at an average of 35 and an economy of 4.2. So, his economy rate is also good. The full story is that Jadeja’s stats are not that good, while Axar’s seem slightly better, but he is injured.”

With doubts looming over Axar Patel’s fitness due to an injury sustained during the Asia Cup, the Indian selectors have made contingency plans. Washington Sundar and Ravichandran Ashwin have been included in the ODI squad for the upcoming series against Australia, which commences on Friday, September 22.

While Axar Patel has certainly showcased his abilities in recent years, including a crucial unbeaten 64 against West Indies in July 2022 and a solid 56 against Bangladesh in December 2022, questions remain about his performance against stronger opposition. 

His contribution of 42 off 34 balls against Bangladesh in the Asia Cup 2023 showed promise but fell just short of securing a victory for India. Get free cricket betting tips from Nextbet Sports.