Former India Test captain Ajinkya Rahane has called Axar Patel one of the most underrated cricketers in the current Indian setup. Speaking ahead of the 2025 Asia Cup, Rahane highlighted how Axar has consistently delivered in both batting and bowling roles over the past few years.
He pointed out that Axar is a rare all-rounder who can bowl effectively in all phases of a T20 game—whether it is the powerplay, the middle overs, or the death overs. His ability to adapt to varying conditions and situations makes him invaluable for the team.
He said: “He is a very much underrated player. In the last two-three years, if you see his performance with bat and ball, it has been outstanding.”
Rahane further underlined that Axar’s contributions extend beyond his bowling. He is a dependable lower-order batsman who can rescue the side when quick runs are needed and a sharp fielder who saves crucial runs in tight contests.
“In T20 cricket, if a bowler is effective in all three phases, that is a massive thing. Plus, he is a good batsman and an excellent fielder—a captain’s delight.”
With the Asia Cup being held in Dubai from September 9–28, where spin-friendly conditions are expected, Rahane believes Axar’s skill set could be a decisive factor in India’s campaign.
Backing Hardik Pandya as a Key All-Rounder
Alongside his praise for Axar Patel, Rahane also voiced strong support for Hardik Pandya, emphasizing the balance he brings to the team. Rahane noted that Hardik’s role as a finisher in the middle-lower order (No. 5 or 6) is vital for India. His ability to accelerate the innings with aggressive stroke play allows India to maintain pressure on the opposition in the later overs.
Just as important, according to Rahane, is Hardik’s bowling contribution. If Hardik bowls his full quota of four overs, it gives the captain more flexibility in team combinations and strategy. His dual role as a big-hitting batsman and a seam-bowling option makes him indispensable, particularly in the high-pressure environment of a multi-nation tournament like the Asia Cup.
India’s Asia Cup Campaign and Squad Dynamics
The Indian squad for the 2025 Asia Cup features both Axar Patel and Hardik Pandya, ensuring depth in the all-rounder department. Earlier this year, Axar was even named vice-captain for the home T20I series against England. However, with Shubman Gill returning to the squad, he has now taken over the vice-captaincy under skipper Suryakumar Yadav. Despite this, Axar remains a crucial figure in the setup.
India has been placed in Group A alongside UAE, Oman, and Pakistan. Their campaign will begin on September 10 against the UAE at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. With conditions expected to assist spin and the presence of impactful all-rounders like Axar and Hardik, India enters the tournament with both confidence and high expectations.
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