India’s spin bowling all-rounder Axar Patel has been ruled out of the third ODI against Australia in Rajkot on Wednesday. Axar who was initially ruled out of the first two games of the series has been nursing a left quadriceps strain which he suffered during the Asia Cup clash against Bangladesh.
He was ruled out of the final match of the tournament and the first two ODIs against Australia. Now it has been reported that the all-rounder hasn’t fully recovered and won’t be a part of the final game of the series. Although the selectors are confident of Axar’s availability for the World Cup.
Indications are that Axar could be ready for the World Cup warm-up games. This could put Ajit Agarkar & Co. in a serious dilemma. At this stage, however, Ashwin’s chances appear promising, and the selectors have not announced a replacement for Axar for the upcoming game.
Another Chance
Axar’s unavailability raises hopes that Ravichandran Ashwin, who has replaced the left-arm spinner, could potentially participate in the World Cup. Ashwin has displayed outstanding form in the first two ODIs, securing four wickets and, more notably, showcasing top-notch bowling skills that have seemingly troubled Australian batters, especially during the match in Indore on Sunday. This has led to calls for his inclusion in the World Cup squad.
Hoping for the best
India’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar said that the team is confident of his availability for the World Cup. In the words of Agarkar “From what has been made known to us with Axar’s injury is that he should be okay. That’s a call we’ll make once we know that.” “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.”
India lead the three-match ODI series 2-0 after winning the second ODI comprehensively
