Axar Patel made a fielding blunder in the second ODI between India and England in Cuttack. With Ben Duckett going after the bowlers, Rohit Sharma brought Hardik Pandya into attack in the sixth over of the innings.
Pandya almost ended Phil Salt’s innings when his shot went straight to Axar, but a lapse in concentration by the fielder gave a lifeline to the English batter. Hardik was shocked by Axar’s poor attempt and looked disappointed. After the over, Axar said sorry to the bowler several times.
“Axar Patel has apologized to Hardik Pandya eight to ten times. Pandya can’t believe it as Aaxr doesn’t drop catches, and Bapu (Axar) is also miffed by himself. Hardik also did the job for his captain Rohit but was not supported by the fielder,” Suresh Raina said on Sports 18.
Raina also highlighted Hardik’s importance in the team. “He will be a key player for India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. His six-seven overs and the batting will be deciding factor,” he added.
Virat Kohli replaced Yashasvi Jaiswal, while Kuldeep was rested to give Varun Chakravarthy a debut cap in the Cuttack ODI. India are leading the series 1-0, following their 4-wicket win in Nagpur.