Axar is aware of the opportunities that may arise as the Indian Test side transitions into a new era.
A contender to replace Ravindra Jadeja at some point, spin-bowling all-rounder Axar Patel is aware of the opportunities that may arise as the Indian Test side transitions into a new era.
However, the 31-year-old feels he doesn't need to prove "anything to anyone" to stake his claim. With 184 international wickets across formats, including 55 scalps in 14 Tests, Axar has delivered impactful performances when given the chance.
“Yes, a transition phase is coming, but ultimately, it's the selectors' and captain's decision. I don't feel the need to prove anything to anyone," Axar told reporters ahead of the first T20I against England in Kolkata on January 22.
"My focus is on fulfilling the role assigned to me and consistently improving. If I perform well, my place in the team will take care of itself."
Axar, the current Indian T20I vice-captain, considers himself an all-format player. "I remind myself that I’ve played all three formats—Tests, ODIs, and T20s. My focus is on performing whenever opportunities come my way, rather than worrying about proving myself or whether I get picked."
"I don't feel pressured by the thought of deserving a spot. It's always about the team combination and whether there's a place for me."
Axar revealed he wasn’t discouraged by the Border-Gavaskar Trophy snub, and instead he chose to focus on contributing during a T20I series in South Africa, where he featured in all games.
"When it comes to selection, I think more about where I can contribute rather than whether I deserve to be in a particular squad. It's part of a cricketer’s journey—only 15 players can make the squad, and no one’s place is guaranteed."
Amid recent discussions about communication between players and the Gautam Gambhir-led support staff during the tour Down Under, Axar Patel avoided addressing the speculation directly.
"Since I wasn’t with the team for the past two and a half months, I don’t have much insight into what happened in Australia. But the support staff’s approach has been consistent—they provide the necessary inputs based on bowling and batting roles," he remarked.
"T20 is a fast-paced format, so it’s more about making the right decisions and understanding specific roles. Communication in this regard has been very clear."