Akshar Patel played a key role in India’s T20 World Cup 2024 triumph by scoring crucial runs and chipping in with important wickets.
In the final against South Africa, however, Akshar’s bowling performance was subpar. While the all-rounder slammed 47 off 31 balls in the title clash, he failed to make a mark with the ball.
The left-arm spinner conceded 49 runs in his allotted four overs as he was taken to the cleaners by the rampaging Heinrich Klaasen (52 off 27).
Speaking to Cricbuzz, Akshar Patel revealed how skipper Rohit Sharma kept his spirits high even as Klaasen launched a brutal assault on him.
"In the final, when Heinrich Klaasen was aggressive against me, Rohit approached me and reassured me, saying, 'It's alright. You bowled your best. If he hits a good shot, there's not much you can do. Just focus on the next ball.' His support and encouragement boosted my confidence. After I completed the over, he tapped my shoulder and said, 'Well done. Don't worry.' Such conversations from your captain lift you and keep you motivated on the field. Rohit excels in providing that kind of support," Akshar said.
Akshar lauded Rohit for his astute captaincy during the marquee event, noting how effectively he managed the team and brought the best from his troops.
"Rohit Sharma is a brilliant captain. If you observed his captaincy during the World Cup, you wouldn't find a set formula. In some games, I bowled two overs in the PowerPlay, while in others, Jasprit Bumrah bowled early. There wasn't a specific pattern. Similarly, in batting, I didn't always move up the order. In the final, Shivam Dube batted ahead of Hardik Pandya. It was all very tactical, showcasing his ability to think strategically in different situations, determining which player would perform best," he stated.
"I believe Rohit had done his homework. Throughout the World Cup, he brought out the best in each player. For instance, in the England game, he sent Ravindra Jadeja ahead of me and Dube, displaying an incredible presence of mind. Even in the final, Bumrah completed his overs by the 18th over (normally he bowls the 19th over). There were numerous such instances where his skill in rotating bowlers effectively contributed to the result. It's something that comes with experience I guess. He understands each player's strengths and utilizes them according to the game's demands. Winning five IPL titles isn't coincidental," he further remarked.
Rohit Sharma announced his retirement from the shortest format following the T20 World Cup win. He will now shift his focus to ODIs and Tests with big assignments coming up in the next few months.
