Indian Test vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah called the all-rounder a valuable asset for the team, explaining that a fit Axar Patel is an automatic choice on any team.
IND vs SL: Matchfit Axar Patel jumps straight back into team, says Jasprit Bumrah (Reuters Photo)
HIGHLIGHTS
- Axar Patel added a lot of value every time he played: Jasprit Bumrah
- Axar Patel was included in the Indian squad for the 2nd Test
- Axar has completed his rehab, cleared by the BCCI Medical Team
Indian Test vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah said Friday that the fit Axar Patel jumps right back into the side as he adds value not only with the racquet and the ball but also on the field. Bumrah heaped praise on Axar, saying the all-rounder adds a lot of value with his return to the squad.
Fit all-rounder Axar, who had recovered from a shin sprain after missing the South African tour and the T20I series against the West Indies, returned to the Indian line-up as he replaced Kuldeep Yadav for the second Test against Sri Lanka, which starts on Saturday.
“Axar Patel has created a lot of value whenever he’s played, contributed a lot and offers a lot in all departments,” Bumrah told reporters during Friday’s pre-game press conference.
“He’s been injured but he’ll come right back in when he’s fit. We’ll discuss our combination but of course he’s valuable,” added Bumrah.
Axar Patel’s last international appearance was at home against New Zealand last year. He took 9 wickets in 2 games against Tom Latham’s side before suffering the injury.
Axar, who made his debut in the second Test against England, got off to a great start to his Test career after following a five-wicket move in his debut game with two more in a row in the two innings of the Pink Ball Test in Ahmedabad.
