Axar Patel Suffers Head Injury, Clouds India’s Preparations for Pakistan Clash in Asia Cup
PALLEKELE, Sri Lanka – All-rounder Axar Patel sustained a head injury during India’s Asia Cup match against Oman on Sunday, raising concerns about his availability for the highly anticipated clash against Pakistan less than 48 hours away. The injury occurred while fielding, prompting immediate medical attention.
While initial assessments indicate the injury is not serious, the incident adds to India’s concerns ahead of the crucial match. Patel is a key spin-bowling all-rounder for the team, and his absence would necessitate adjustments to the lineup. India currently has onyl two other specialist spinners in the squad – Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy - and may need to rely on part-time options like Abhishek Sharma if Patel is ruled out.
T. Rileep, India’s fielding coach, is monitoring Patel’s condition closely. Washington Sundar is a standby player for the Asia Cup and could be called upon if Patel is unable to recover in time. the team is also mindful of the need to have a balanced attack, especially with the conditions in Sri lanka favoring spin bowling.