Veteran all-rounder Axar Patel was one of the key players for India in the T20I World Cup 2024. Axar contributed in all three departments of the game in the tournament and he was India’s saviour every time the team struggled. With the bat, he helped India come out in the final of the tournament. With the ball, he dismissed defending champions England batters in the semi-final and helped his side, whereas Axar’s catch against Mitchell Marsh in Super 8s vs Australia changed the fortune of the game.

Speaking to Cricbuzz, Axar revealed, “Playing tennis ball cricket had an impact on my hitting ability because, in that format, you can hit almost every ball for a six or a four, especially in short 10-12 over games. It also influenced my shot selection. Initially, I would predominantly hit the ball to the leg side. However, when I transitioned to season ball cricket, I realised the importance of playing with the swing and not just slogging every ball. I worked on expanding my hitting areas, focusing on playing straight and avoiding cross-batted shots. Tennis ball cricket also taught me how to handle pressure. Growing up, I often found myself in pressure situations, which made me more stable and stronger mentally. I learned to stay calm and think positively, which has been invaluable in my career.”

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However, Axar Patel was sent up in the batting order against Pakistan on the terrible New York pitch in the group stages of the game as well. While Axar couldn’t contribute much in that game, the batter said that the sudden change prepared him for facing anything in the marquee event.

“Against Pakistan I was sent up the order. Before the match, I was told that I may have to bat early if there are early wickets. At that time I was nervous. In the nets, I did not practise with the new ball and suddenly I was having to play in PowerPlay. My IPL experience came in handy and it made me feel positive. For Delhi Capitals, I batted a few times in the PowerPlay overs and played a few crucial knocks too. That helped me understand what to do in those situations. I had to be positive and not worry about who would be bowling to me. I was not trying to over think. And I knew that I had the game to play according to the situation. I just wanted to stay in the present. That worked for me against Pakistan,” Axar Patel concluded.