Xtra Time Web Desk: Team India left arm spinner Axar Patel is likely to be unavailable for the third and final ODI against Australia in Rajkot due to a left quadriceps strain. Axar’s cipf-es.org injury does raise high hopes for Ravichandran Ashwin to make it to the 15-member Indian squad for ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
According to a report in Cricbuzz, Axar has not fully recovered and is undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. The left arm spinner The veteran off-spinner has showcased remarkable form in the first two ODIs against Australia, taking four crucial wickets including three in the second game at Indore.
The outstanding performance by Ashwin has sparked calls for his inclusion in the World Cup squad. However, sources within the BCCI indicate that Axar, who was initially chosen ahead of Ashwin, is on track for a timely return to the Indian team, possibly even making it to the World Cup warm-up games.
This dilemma puts the selectors, in a challenging position as they contemplate Ashwin’s promising chances. As of now, no replacement has been announced for Axar for the upcoming game, keeping the World Cup selection intrigue alive.