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Axar Patel credited his stellar performance in the T20 World Cup 2024 final against South Africa to his close collaboration with Virat Kohli. Tasked with stabilizing India’s innings after a rocky start at 34-3, Axar’s aggressive innings of 47 runs off 31 balls proved decisive. Kohli’s steady presence on the other end allowed Axar to take the attack to the South African bowlers, particularly targeting their spinners.
Despite his unfortunate dismissal, Axar’s crucial partnership of 72 runs with Kohli shifted the momentum back in India’s favor and set the stage for a formidable total. His unexpected promotion to No. 5 in the batting order paid off handsomely, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure in the final match of the tournament.
Axar Patel credits his communication with Virat Kohli for his run-scoring prowess.
Additionally, Axar Patel highlighted that his communication with Virat Kohli was instrumental in maintaining his composure and adopting a positive approach during his innings.
“I wasn’t nervous. Obviously, there is pressure on you, but at the time, I didn’t understand how to react. I don’t think when I went to bat, there was anything going on in my mind. I had gone with a see-ball, hit-ball mindset. I was not thinking about anything, not worrying about the consequences; there were no second thoughts in my mind,” Axar said.
Additionally, Axar Patel highlighted that his communication with Virat Kohli was instrumental in maintaining his composure and adopting a positive approach during his innings.
“I consistently communicated with Virat [Kohli] bhai, so I didn’t feel that I have come in early and that I have to do something different. I kept talking with Virat bhai, and we communicated clearly about what we have to do,” Axar added.
Shivam Dube sustained the momentum, contributing to India’s achievement of a substantial total.
After Axar Patel’s dismissal, Shivam Dube maintained the momentum with a brisk 27 off 16 balls. Virat Kohli then accelerated, smashing an impressive 76 off 59 deliveries. India finished strong at 176-7 in 20 overs.
South Africa started their reply losing early wickets but Quinton de Kock and Tristan Stubbs steadied the innings with a resilient partnership. Heinrich Klaasen then took charge with a crucial 24 off Axar Patel’s over.
However, India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah’s exceptional spell and Hardik Pandya’s crucial final over, defending 16 runs, secured India’s first ICC tournament win in 11 years.
