India leaves the Asia Cup with bundles of confidence, as they managed to clinch the trophy with a convincing performance in the finals against Sri Lanka, with both their batting and bowling departments firing in the tournament. Ajit Agarkar would be delighted to see a complete performance in the Asia Cup 2023. Ajit Agarkar’s decision to not include Yuzvendra Chahal for Asia Cup 2023 perhaps was the right one
A minor concern would be the injury to Axar Patel, who was ruled out of the final and is in doubt for the World Cup. Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar gave updates on the all-rounder’s recovery and was hopeful of Axar being ready for the World Cup.
India will kickstart its campaign in the World Cup against Australia on October 8, while also playing a 3-match ODI series against them at home. Axar Patel has risen up the ranks with his sharp bowling and antiques down the order, becoming a key member of India’s squad in all 3 formats. Axar suffered an injury during India’s match against Bangladesh in the Super 4, where he reportedly tore his left hamstring, forcing India to call up Washington Sundar for the finals.
From what has been made known to us with Axar’s injury, he should be okay. That’s a call we’ll make once we know that – Ajit Agarkar
BCCI Selection Committee Chairman Ajit Agarkar spoke to the press and gave updates about the 29-year-old’s injury, which forced him to be excluded from the first two ODIs against Australia and put him in doubt for the World Cup. Agarkar was optimistic about Axar recovering on time for the World Cup.
“Axar, unfortunately, picked up an injury in that game, and we are hopeful that he will be fit. Washington Sundar was already part of the squad for the (Asia Cup) final, and Ashwin brings experience, so it gives us options in case there is a need at some stage to look at a couple of guys,” said Ajit Agarkar.
The former cricketer hushed any speculations about finding replacements for Axar for the time being but also said that they had good replacements in Washington and Ashwin if the all-rounder doesn’t recover in time for the mega event.
“There are a couple of guys – Ashwin and Sundar. But, at least, it leaves us with options – these guys get a couple of games now –If the need arises, we’ll have a look at it at that stage. I don’t think there’s any need to speculate right now. We are hoping that he (Axar) is fit.” he stated.