Sydney, Oct 28: Ravindra Jadeja’s void is difficult to fill but the Indian team management has asked Axar Patel to be mentally ready as he would be asked to bat in the top six as and when required.
With India’s top six comprising of all right handers, the need for a left-hand batter to upset the rhythm of opposition is paramount.
Axar was sent at No 5 against Pakistan but the move didn’t pay off as he was run out for one. “They had left-arm spinner Nawaz and leg-spinner Shadab so it was important to send a left-hander and I was asked to go,” Axar told media persons.
“Since our top six are right handers, I have been told by management that if need be I will be promoted in the middle overs and I should be ready for that. That role is already assigned and I have performed in practice games.”
“After the Pakistan game, I sat with video analysts and bowling coach. Actually there will be days when a batter would take chance against you.
“I analyzed and out of three sixes that were hit against me, I only bowled one bad ball. You will have those days but if you keep on thinking then you can’t survive.” (PTI)
