Axar has scored a total of 7 runs in the first two ODIs while batting at No. 5.
India's assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak defended sending all-rounder Axar Patel at No. 5 ahead of KL Rahul in the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand to maintain a left-right batting combination and use latter’s strength as a finisher at No. 6
Kotak emphasized that Axar is a capable batter who has frequently succeeded at No. 5 during head coach Gautam Gambhir's tenure. He noted that tactical promotions are judged strictly on outcomes, adding that the same move is praised when it produces runs.
While Axar bagged a two-ball duck in the series opener at Auckland, he scored 7 runs off 17 balls in the second ODI at Wellington. Rahul remained unbeaten on 3 and 26 across the two matches.
“Yes, one reason is definitely the left-right combination. Another factor is recognising KL’s strength in finishing games. Furthermore, Axar has often batted at number five in ODIs; he is a capable batter," Kotak told reporters on the eve of the third ODI in Hamilton.
“The reality is, if a tactic does not yield runs, people question why the player was sent up; if it works, people call it a brilliant move. That is just how it goes," he added.
Despite his slow start in New Zealand, Axar Patel has delivered several steady contributions at No. 5 since early 2025, including key knocks during the Champions Trophy triumph in Dubai.
During the pre-match press conference, Kotak also expressed his admiration for Rahul's ability to adjust to the team's needs.
"I think KL Rahul's biggest advantage is that he can open in red-ball cricket and bat in the middle order in white-ball cricket. Whenever required, he can also go with five overs left. His record there is also very good. So, he plays according to the team's needs," Kotak said.
"Since I have joined, I cannot remember many matches in which he has had an opportunity to bat but has not contributed. He has played some unbelievable innings, and he never looks under pressure. If you notice, I have never seen KL under pressure. You always see him looking very stable. Most of the time, probably all the time, he has never let the team down," he remarked.
India lead the five-ODI series 2-0. The third match will be played at Seddon Park, Hamilton on Tuesday (November 10).