Axar Patel doubtful for India-Pakistan Asia Cup Super Four clash against Pakistan after head injury
If Patel is unavailable, India could be forced to play with only two specialist spinners, Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy, with a pacer likely stepping in as a replacement
PTC Web Desk: India’s all-rounder Axar Patel is facing uncertainty over his participation in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 Super Four match against Pakistan, after suffering a head injury during the group-stage encounter against Oman in Abu Dhabi.
Axar Patel was injured while fielding in the 15th over of Oman’s innings when he attempted a catch off Hammad Mirza. The ball slipped from his grasp, and in the process, he struck his head on the ground. Patel appeared uncomfortable and walked off the field soon after.
India’s fielding coach T Dilip offered some reassurance post-match, mentioning that Patel “looks fine.” However, with less than 48 hours before India’s high-stakes clash against Pakistan, his fitness remains a key concern.
If Patel is unavailable, India could be forced to play with only two specialist spinners, Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy, with a pacer likely stepping in as a replacement. Among the standby options, Riyan Parag and Washington Sundar are the closest like-for-like all-round alternatives.
Patel made a quick-fire 26 off 13 balls with the bat against Oman, highlighting his value to India’s balance and flexibility. With the ball, he bowled just one over, conceding four runs, as India used as many as eight bowlers in their 21-run victory.
India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday in their first Super Four meeting. In the group stage, Pakistan had secured a convincing 7-wicket win over India, setting the stage for another high-intensity showdown.