Indian all-rounder Akshar Patel credited the IPL for his match-winning knock in the second ODI against the West Indies after Team India won by two wickets on Sunday (July 24) at Queen’s Park Oval.
The spin all-rounder finished the match for India with a six to take an unbeaten lead of 2-0 in the ongoing three-match ODI series against the West Indies. He was adjudged player of the match.
Chasing 312 for victory, India needed 100 runs from the last 10 overs with five wickets in hand. Patel went on to berserk on the West Indies bowlers and played an unbeaten knock of 64 runs, as well as added 51 runs with Deepak Hooda (33) to take the touring side over the line in the final over on Sunday.
He also picked up a wicket in the match. It was Patel’s maiden fifty in ODI cricket and he was happy with his performance and wants to continue to do well for the team.
Akshar Patel said after collecting the player of the match award: “It's very special. It came at a crucial time and also helped the team to win the series. When I went out, I aimed for 10-11 an over. We thought it could be done because of our IPL experience.”
The 28-year-old added, “We just needed to remain calm and keep the intensity up. This is my first ODI (series) after nearly five years. I would want to continue performing like this for my team.”
(With Reuters Inputs)
