On Monday, against the India VS West Indies match, Axar Patel performed magnificently and hit his maiden ODI half-century to lead India into a thrilling win over West Indies, ultimately helping India to bag the series.
The all-rounder smashed a handsome 64 run knock in 35 balls that includes three boundaries and five sixes. With Monday’s victory, India has clinched the three match series by 2-0.
Axar Patel came to the crease when India was down by five wickets with a score of 205 in 38.4 overs, with a target of 312. The all-rounder started sow, initially building his innings. Soon after, he picked up Akeal Hosein for a six in the eighth ball. Once Axar got going, he did not stop – India required 100 runs after his maximum and maintaining his form, Patel continued batting with the same tempo, leading India to victory.
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Crediting the Indian Premier League for his handsome innings, Axar said, “It’s very special. It came at a crucial time and also helped the team to win the series.” He further added, “the 28-year-old said after collecting the man-of-the-match award. “When I went out, I aimed for 10-11 an over. We thought it could be done because of our IPL experience. We just needed to remain calm and keep the intensity up.”
Axar returned into the 50-over-format after a long gap. However, he maintained his form and continued being content to perform for the team. Apart from Axar, the West Indian batsman Shai Hope put up an incredible performance with the bat as well – he scored 115 runs off 135 balls, while Nicolas Pooran scored 74.
From the India dug-out, Shreyas Iyer and Sanju Samson chipped half-centuries in the middle overs to contribute towards India’s victory. The Indian skipper Shikhar Dhawan also shared his experience and said that IPL has helped him regain form and continue with it over the last few years, which have been rough for him.
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Adding the same, he said, “Our domestic and IPL cricket keep us ready … As Axar said, he’s done it multiple times in IPL.” Both the teams meet for the final ODI which is about to be held on Wednesday, followed by a T20I series of five matches.
