'Axar, pads pehen le…': Rohit's instincts, Hardik's Gujarati tips and Kohli's assurance that won India T20 World Cup

The T20 World Cup final between India and South Africa was a match for the ages, filled with numerous turning points that kept fans on the edge of their seats. In a game where momentum swung back and forth, India ultimately emerged victorious by a narrow margin of seven runs, ending their long wait for an ICC trophy. Key moments included Virat Kohli’s explosive batting in the final overs, Jasprit Bumrah’s strategic spell completion before the 20th over, Rishabh Pant’s brief break for knee treatment, and Suryakumar Yadav’s spectacular catch to dismiss David Miller. However, one strategic move that significantly impacted the game but often goes unnoticed was the decision to send Axar Patel at No. 5.

India’s innings started on a shaky note. Captain Rohit Sharma was dismissed cheaply, and moments later, Rishabh Pant was out for a first-ball duck. The situation worsened when Suryakumar Yadav, known for his impressive T20I record against South Africa, got out playing his favorite scoop shot. With India reeling at 34/3, a top-order collapse seemed imminent. It was at this critical juncture that Axar Patel was promoted to No. 5, a move that raised many eyebrows but eventually proved to be a masterstroke.

Axar Patel’s promotion in the batting order was a calculated risk. Although he had previously batted higher against Pakistan, scoring a modest 20 runs, the stakes were much higher in the World Cup final. The pressure was immense, and even the most seasoned players could buckle under such circumstances. However, Axar rose to the occasion, playing a crucial counter-attacking innings of 47 off 31 balls, including four sixes and a four. His aggressive approach helped stabilize the innings and provided India with the momentum they desperately needed.

The decision to promote Axar Patel was not made on a whim. It was a strategic move driven by several factors. Firstly, Axar had demonstrated his capability to handle pressure and play aggressively when required. His innings against Pakistan showed that he could adapt to different situations and deliver when the team needed him most. Additionally, the team management recognized that South Africa’s bowlers would target the middle order with aggressive pace and spin. Axar’s ability to counter both effectively made him an ideal candidate to navigate this challenging phase.

While Axar Patel’s innings was crucial, several other turning points played a significant role in India’s victory.

1. **Virat Kohli’s Late Surge**: Kohli, known for his finishing prowess, launched a ferocious attack in the last few overs. His ability to accelerate the scoring rate under pressure added valuable runs to India’s total, making it more challenging for South Africa to chase.

2. **Jasprit Bumrah’s Spell**: Bumrah’s decision to complete his spell before the final over was a strategic masterstroke. His accurate and economical bowling in the death overs put the brakes on South Africa’s scoring, ensuring that they were always behind the required rate.

3. **Rishabh Pant’s Grit**: Despite a brief break to receive treatment for his knees, Pant’s resilience and determination to stay in the game exemplified the fighting spirit of the Indian team. His quick reflexes behind the stumps and leadership in the field were crucial in maintaining the pressure on South Africa.

4. **Suryakumar Yadav’s Catch**: Suryakumar’s acrobatic catch to dismiss David Miller was a game-changer. Miller, known for his explosive batting, was poised to take the game away from India. The dismissal not only removed a dangerous player but also lifted the morale of the Indian team.

India’s victory in the T20 World Cup final was a testament to their strategic planning, teamwork, and individual brilliance. The decision to send Axar Patel at No. 5 was a key element of their success, showcasing the importance of flexibility and adaptability in cricket. Axar’s performance under pressure, combined with crucial contributions from other players, ensured that India could defend their total and secure a memorable win.

The T20 World Cup final between India and South Africa will be remembered as a classic encounter filled with drama and excitement. The strategic decisions made by the Indian team management, particularly the promotion of Axar Patel, played a pivotal role in their triumph. This victory not only ended India’s wait for an ICC trophy but also highlighted the importance of making bold moves and backing players to perform in high-pressure situations. As fans celebrate this historic win, the contributions of every player, especially the unsung hero Axar Patel, will be cherished and remembered for years to come.