Axar Patel found himself at the centre of an unfortunate fielding mishap during India’s second ODI against England, leaving both Hardik Pandya and fielding coach T Dilip visibly frustrated. As India sought an early breakthrough, Axar, who was entrusted with the vice-captaincy during the T20I series against England, dropped a straightforward catch that could have dismissed England’s explosive opener, Phil Salt.
The costly error handed Salt a crucial lifeline, much to the dismay of the Indian camp. Phil Salt, alongside Ben Duckett, was once again instrumental in providing England with a strong start, making the missed opportunity even more painful for India.
Given Salt’s ability to take the game away in the powerplay, the catch could have shifted momentum in India’s favour early on. However, cricket often has its own script, and this time, it seemed to favor England. The dropped chance occurred in the sixth over when Hardik Pandya delivered a short-pitched ball outside off-stump. Salt attempted to use the pace, cutting it towards the deep backward point region.
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Axar Patel was stationed there, perfectly positioned to complete what looked like a regulation catch. He got into position,and prepared his hands, but to the horror of Indian fans, he spilled the ball, allowing Salt to continue his onslaught.
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Pandya, understandably frustrated, sank to his knees, unable to hide his disappointment. The cameras soon panned to T Dilip, whose reaction suggested clear irritation at the missed opportunity. Given how critical fielding lapses can be in ODIs, this was a moment India could ill afford.
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Despite the setback, debutant Varun Chakravarthy managed to provide India with a breakthrough by dismissing Salt. However, England remained in a commanding position at 85/1, continuing to dictate terms in the game. India still had a lot of work to do, needing regular wickets to claw their way back into the contest.
