'Unhone mana kar diya...': Axar's unusual request to umpire

NEW DELHI: In the first match of the three-match T20 series against Afghanistan, India's spinner

Axar Patel

made an unusual request to the on-field umpire during the chilly night in

Mohali

.
Patel asked if he could wear a glove on one hand while bowling, considering the extreme cold conditions. However, the umpire declined the request, and Patel had to continue without the added protection.
Axar Patel, who had a notable performance in the match, taking two wickets while conceding 23 runs in four overs, later explained, "I wasn't feeling the ball; it was very cold.

We knew it was winter and would be cold, but I was only thinking about my bowling, how to put pressure on them. There was a lot of dew, but I focused on my accuracy."

"(Maine umpire se poocha tha ki main ek haath me gloves pehen ke bowling kar lu, lekin unhone mana kar diya) I had asked the umpire if I can wear a glove in one hand, but he said no," he added.
Despite the challenging weather conditions, Patel showcased his dedication to the game. In the post-match press conference, he emphasized his commitment to giving his best and not letting concerns about World Cup team selection create unnecessary pressure.

"Right now, I want to focus on the IPL, and then we also have a Test series against England coming up soon," Patel stated.

Team India is gearing up for the T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA, with just two more T20Is remaining before the tournament. Patel acknowledged the intense competition for a spot in the Indian team and emphasized his focus on improving his skill sets.
In the same T20 clash, all-rounder

Shivam Dube

battled the bitterly cold weather to score an unbeaten half-century and contribute with the ball, helping India secure a comfortable win over Afghanistan. India now lead the three-match series 1-0, setting the stage for further preparation ahead of the T20 World Cup in June.