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Axar Patel recently shared how Rahul Dravid’s advice resonated deeply with him. Dravid, known for his wisdom and gentlemanly demeanor in cricket, impressed upon Patel the significance of winning a World Cup and creating lasting memories in his career.
Under Rohit Sharma’s leadership, the Indian team achieved a remarkable feat by clinching the T20 World Cup 2024 title. They secured victory in a gripping final against South Africa, prevailing by a narrow margin of seven runs at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on June 29. The triumph marked a fitting farewell gift to Rahul Dravid, who concluded his tenure as head coach of the national cricket team.
Facing a challenging start at 34/3 in 4.3 overs after choosing to bat first, the Indian team found resilience through strategic decisions. Rahul Dravid’s tactical move to elevate Axar Patel up the batting order proved pivotal. Patel’s composed innings stabilized the innings, partnering effectively with Virat Kohli to propel India to a competitive total of 176/7 in 20 overs.
Patel’s contribution with the bat was significant, scoring 47 runs off 31 balls, including four sixes and a boundary. However, his bowling performance was less effective, conceding 49 runs in four overs, with a costly final over that allowed Heinrich Klaasen to score 24 runs. Despite the bowling challenge, Patel’s impact with the bat underscored his versatility and crucial role in India’s victorious campaign.
Known Him Since India A Days – Axar Patel
Axar Patel reflected on his enduring connection with Rahul Dravid, tracing it back to their days together in India A. In a recent interview with Times Now, Patel fondly remembered Dravid’s guidance, particularly his emphasis on cherishing memorable moments in cricket.
Dravid’s profound advice centered on the importance of team success and the significance of winning a World Cup over individual accomplishments.
“I have known him since India A days and spent a lot of time with him. When I wasn’t playing for India for 3 years he was constantly there for me through India A. He has always said one thing that will stay with me forever and it is – It doesn’t matter how many matches or how many runs I scored for India, what matters is the memory we create now,” Patel said.
He told me that you will play well in one match but you won’t recall it after 5 or 10 years but winning the World Cup will be a memory you will never forget – whether it’s a fielding medal or simply just recalling the time we spent together in Barbados – will be special. He’s a gentleman of the game, even Rohit Sharma has said it,” he added.
Rahul Dravid Wouldn’t Mind The Loud Noises – Axar Patel
Axar Patel highlighted Rahul Dravid’s supportive approach towards the team, noting that Dravid never criticized the players for their enthusiasm, whether it was noise or music in the dressing room; instead, he adapted to the team’s dynamics. Patel expressed his joy in contributing to a well-deserved farewell for Dravid, emphasizing that winning the World Cup served as a perfect tribute to the respected coach.
“He wouldn’t mind the loud noises or music in the dressing room. He never told any of us that we were wrong, instead he changed himself. Very happy we could give him the farewell he deserved – don’t think there can be a bigger high than winning the World Cup.”
In his recent campaign, the 30-year-old all-rounder showcased his skills with the bat and ball. Across five innings, he amassed 92 runs at an average of 23.00, maintaining a striking strike rate of 139.39. With the ball, he proved equally effective, claiming nine wickets in eight matches while maintaining an economy rate of 7.86. His best bowling performance stood at an impressive 3/23, underscoring his valuable contributions throughout the series.
