After securing a 1-0 lead in the series with a convincing victory in the first ODI, India found themselves at 105/3 by the 22nd over. Throughout the series, the visiting team has been keen on experimentation, which was evident in the second match too.
Surprising fans, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were rested, and Hardik Pandya assumed the captaincy. Even more astonishing was Axar Patel’s promotion to bat at No. 4.
With the second wicket falling at 95, many expected Suryakumar Yadav or Hardik Pandya to come in, but Axar Patel took the spot instead, raising eyebrows.
Unfortunately, he departed after scoring just one run, leading fans on social media to express their displeasure over India’s apparent lack of planning, especially with the World Cup approaching soon.
— Hitler Mishra (@HitlerMish5814) July 29, 2023
Teams usually prepare thoroughly with tactics and strategies ahead of a marquee event. However, India bucked the trend when they surprisingly sent Axar Patel at No. 4, facing criticism on social media due to the upcoming ODI World Cup.
