In a resounding 61-run victory over Pakistan in Colombo, India’s Axar Patel turned heads not just with his bowling figures of 2/29 but with his refreshing take on the age-old rivalry. ‘For us, it was simply a match, no bad blood involved,’ the all-rounder stated after Team India’s commanding display.
Detailing the preparation, Axar highlighted the emphasis on self-reliance. ‘We ignored the hype around our batsmen facing their bowlers. Instead, we concentrated on our predefined plans for every phase of the game,’ he explained. This strategy paid dividends as India racked up 175/7, setting a daunting target that Pakistan chased falteringly, folding for 114.
Axar’s wickets of key Pakistani batsmen Babar Azam and Usman Khan were pivotal. ‘I block out everything else when playing – no thoughts of rivalry or external pressure. It’s all about staying in the zone,’ he shared, offering insights into his mental fortitude.
The electric atmosphere in Colombo, filled with Indian blue, mirrored global support. ‘Wherever we go – be it Australia, England, or West Indies – our supporters turn up in numbers,’ Axar appreciated. He lauded Ishan Kishan’s match-winning 77: ‘Pitch conditions were tough with turning balls and variable bounce. Ishan’s assured strokeplay and self-belief made it look effortless.’
This win underscores India’s evolution into a side that prioritizes performance over passion. Axar Patel’s perspective sets a mature tone, signaling that on the field, it’s merit that matters most.