'He had an outstanding series': Australian coach Andrew McDonald showers praise on Axar Patel

Though India won the three match T20I series against Australia 2-1, there were a lot of issues that need to be addressed. Even though, the batting provided a lot of positives, the bowling in the series left a lot to be desired, especially with the T20 World Cup 2022 in sight. However, the one bowler who did steal the show was Axar Patel.

The left-arm spinner took eight wickets in the series and gave away just 63 run in the 10 overs he bowled at an economy rate of just 6.3. In fact, his prolific performances earned him the Player of the series award.

In fact, before India take on South Africa in a three-match T20I series starting September 28, the Australian head coach Andrew McDonald was all praise for the left-arm spinner even calling him as a great replacement for the injured Ravindra Jadeja.

“Axar, in particular, had an outstanding series. With Jaddu (Jadeja) out, everyone thought it might become a bit of weakness for India, but they’ve found another one again, which tends to happen," Mcdonald said in an interaction with PTI.

Ravindra Jadeja was ruled out of the Asia Cup 2022 midway due to a knee injury, and a subsequent surgery has ruled him out for a further few months, thus even ruling him out for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Axar Patel was brought in as his replacement, and has had a great time so far.

In the first T20I against Australia, while all other bowlers went for more than 11 runs an over, Axar Patel bowled a fantastic spell of 17/3 from four overs, getting India back into the game after a strong start by Australia in the chase. In the rain induced eight-over 2nd T20I, Axar Patel finished with impressive figures of 2/13 in his two overs. In the final game, Axar Patel finished wih figures of 3/33, and alon with Yuzvendra Chahal put brakes on the Australian innings after they got off to a fantastic start.