Axar Patel aims for T20 World Cup spot through IPL 2024

NEW DELHI: Left-arm spinner

Axar Patel

is eyeing a spot in the

T20 World Cup

squad, after being sidelined from the ODI World Cup due to an injury, through a strong performance in the upcoming

IPL 2024

.
Patel showcased his prowess in the first T20I against Afghanistan by taking two wickets and conceding 23 runs in four overs.
Expressing his perspective in the post-match press conference, Patel stated, "My job is to give 100 percent to my work ethics and the process. I am not worrying too much about what will happen to the World Cup team selection, and if I do that, I will be putting pressure on myself."

The Indian spinner is currently focused on the IPL, with hopes that a standout performance in the tournament will bolster his chances of securing a spot in the T20 World Cup squad scheduled for June.
India has just two more T20Is before the World Cup, and Patel is aware of the intense competition for a place in the national team.
"Yeah, we are going to play the last two T20Is before the World Cup, and then we have the IPL. I know there is a lot of competition out there (for a WC spot in India team), but my competition is to myself, and I just want to focus on adding to my skill sets," he affirmed.

Patel shared insights into his recovery phase at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), where he worked on refining his skills. Reflecting on his injury during the World Cup, he noted, "I took it positively and tried to improve my game. I was working during my time at the NCA – things like line and length, slower ball, and such variations."
The 29-year-old expressed delight in seeing the fruits of his labor in the series against Australia and the first T20I against Afghanistan.
"I was trying to mix my deliveries up like slower balls, etc. It worked for me in the series against Australia as well, and I have carried that confidence into this series. I am looking at putting more pressure on the batsmen," said Patel.
As Axar Patel gears up for the IPL, fans and selectors will be keenly watching his performances, anticipating a strong comeback and potential inclusion in India's T20 World Cup squad.

(With inputs from PTI)