'Axar Patel has been your MVP': R Ashwin slams Gautam Gambhir-led team management for dropping vice-captain
Times of India
by TOI SPORTS DESKFebruary 23, 2026
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Ravichandran Ashwin has criticized the Indian team management for omitting Axar Patel in the crucial Super 8 clash against South Africa in the T20 World Cup 2026. While India opted to persist with Washington Sundar due to his favorable match-up against left-handers, the decision backfired as Sundar struggled both with the ball and bat, contributing minimally to India's heavy defeat by 76 runs. Ashwin questioned the strategy, arguing that while match-up-based selections might work in franchise cricket like the IPL, they are less effective in high-stakes international tournaments where stability is key.
Ashwin emphasized Axar Patel’s importance as a proven performer, particularly highlighting his role in the 2024 World Cup final against South Africa. He pointed out how Axar and Virat Kohli stitched together a crucial partnership that helped India chase down a challenging target. Ashwin stressed that Axar’s consistency and ability to deliver under pressure make him an invaluable asset to the team, especially in high-pressure situations.
The decision to drop Axar Patel has drawn significant attention, as it comes at a critical juncture in India’s campaign. With their semi-final hopes now hanging in the balance after the defeat against South Africa, questions are being raised about the team management’s approach to player selection. Ashwin’s critique reflects broader concerns within the cricketing community about whether short-term strategies are overshadowing long-term stability and team performance.
This issue is not just a matter of Indian cricket but resonates globally among fans and analysts. The debate over whether match
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/23/2026