Axar Patel's journey to becoming an international cricket star is a tale of perseverance, passion, and unexpected turns. Growing up in a modest household, Axar initially aspired to be a mechanical engineer rather than a cricketer. His father, Rajesh Patel, and mother, Pritiben Patel, supported his education while nurturing his burgeoning interest in cricket.
At the age of 15, a friend's encouragement led him to participate in an interschool cricket competition. It was here that Axar's natural talent began to shine. His skills as a left-arm spinner and all-rounder quickly caught the attention of coaches and selectors. Despite his late start in the sport, he dedicated himself to mastering the game.
Axar made his debut for Gujarat in 2012 at just 18 years old during the Vijay Hazare Trophy. However, it was the 2013-14 Ranji Trophy season that truly marked his arrival on the domestic scene. He took 29 wickets and scored crucial runs for his team, earning accolades and recognition as one of India's brightest prospects.
In 2014, he was picked by Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) for the IPL, where he made an immediate impact with his all-round capabilities. His performance earned him the Emerging Player of the Year award that season, solidifying his place in the hearts of cricket fans.
Axar's consistent performances in domestic cricket paved the way for his international debut. He made his ODI debut against Bangladesh on June 15, 2014, and quickly became known for his accurate bowling and ability to contribute with the bat. However, breaking into the Test side proved more challenging due to competition from established players like Ravindra Jadeja. His patience paid off when he was called up for the Test series against England in early 2021 as a replacement for Jadeja. Axar seized this opportunity with both hands, taking 27 wickets in just three matches at an astonishing average of 10.6 runs per wicket. His performances not only stunned the English batsmen but also established him as a key player in India's spin arsenal.
Despite his success, Axar faced challenges along the way. Injuries and fierce competition meant he often had to wait for opportunities to prove himself on the international stage. His journey was not without setbacks; he experienced periods of being dropped from the squad or being sidelined due to injuries.
Axar Patel has solidified his status as one of India's premier all-rounders. He has played pivotal roles in various formats of the game, contributing significantly with both bat and ball. His versatility has made him an invaluable asset to the Indian team.
Axar was appointed captain of Delhi Capitals after Rishabh Pant's departure to Lucknow Super Giants. This new leadership role comes with immense pressure but also presents an opportunity for Axar to showcase his strategic acumen and lead a talented squad toward their maiden IPL title.