Axar Patel, the all-rounder for Delhi Capitals (DC), expressed how much he missed the lively banter both on and off the field, particularly with Rishabh Pant, during IPL 2023. Rishabh Pant‘s return to the team has rejuvenated that dynamic, marking his comeback to competitive cricket and captaincy after a challenging hiatus due to severe injuries from a near-fatal car accident in December 2022.
It’s great to have him back in Delhi Capitals (DC) team- Axar Patel
David Warner led Delhi Capitals (DC) in IPL 2023 during Rishabh Pant’s absence, but the team faced challenges and struggled to climb out of the bottom half of the points table. Speaking ahead of the start of the season, Axar Patel said,
“I’m sure everyone would have said that it’s great to have him back in the team, but personally, I missed him a lot, missed our banter both on and off the field last year. But, now that he is back, all the banter and fun have started alongside serious conversations around the game. I’m just looking forward to having more fun with him this season,”
Rishabh Pant and Axar Patel share a close friendship that has lasted for many years. Pant affectionately refers to Axar as “Bapu,” a nickname that has become well-known not only in the IPL but also within the Indian team.
It’s been a great atmosphere in the team- Axar Patel
Delhi Capitals (DC) seem to have significantly bolstered their batting lineup compared to 2023, thanks to Rishabh Pant’s inclusion as a strong middle-order wicketkeeping option that doesn’t require an overseas spot. Axar Patel, who plays a vital role as a finisher in the lower order, remarked that the team is filled with confidence, and the coaches have stressed the importance of simplicity.
“Everyone is coming off good performances in their respective domestic and international outings. It’s been a great atmosphere in the team. We have had good intense training sessions in Vizag before our opening game. It’s a new season, we are starting afresh… Mainly the conversations with the coaches have been around the execution of plans and most importantly how to keep things simple in the tournament,” said Axar Patel.
Delhi Capitals (DC) will start their season against the Punjab Kings on Saturday, March 23rd.
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