I don't need to prove anything to anyone: Axar Patel

NEW DELHI: Axar Patel , a spin-bowling all-rounder often seen as a potential long-term replacement for veteran Ravindra Jadeja , is well aware of the opportunities that could arise as Indian cricket transitions into a new era.

However, the 31-year-old, who has spent much of the last decade as Jadeja's understudy, believes he doesn't need to prove "anything to anyone" to stake his claim.

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With 184 international wickets across formats in his 11-year career, including 55 in just 14 Tests, Axar has delivered impactful performances when given the chance. Notably, two of those Test appearances came in Bangladesh when Jadeja was unavailable.

When asked about India's transition and whether he stands to benefit, Axar, currently India's T20 vice-captain, responded with characteristic composure.

"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," he stated ahead of the first T20I against England 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 considers himself an all-format player, a belief he holds firmly.

"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 disheartened about missing out on the Border-Gavaskar Trophy squad, instead choosing to focus on contributing during a T20I series in South Africa, where he played all matches.

"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 India's series in Australia, Axar tactfully avoided addressing the speculation directly. However, he emphasized the importance of clear communication, especially in T20 cricket, which demands quick decision-making.

"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 explained.

"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."

For Axar, it’s less about chasing opportunities and more about being ready to seize them when they come his way, a mindset that keeps him grounded and focused on contributing to the team whenever called upon.