Axar Patel Pushed Through Twisted Knee in Semifinal

Virat Kohli once again proved why he thrives under pressure, guiding India to a hard-fought win over Australia in the ICC Champions Trophy semifinal. His composed 84-run knock anchored India’s chase of 265, helping the team recover from 43/2 and setting up a four-wicket victory. However, former cricketer Yograj Singh had mixed feelings about Kohli’s performance. While he praised the star batter for his match-winning effort, he also felt Kohli’s dismissal came from an unnecessary shot.

Speaking to Lokmat Times, Yograj acknowledged Kohli’s influence on the game but pointed out that he could have finished it off himself. “Virat is a match-winner. But I feel sad because that shot was unnecessary. He should have finished the match. He is like a son to me. He could have done a century and had India lost, it would have been wasted. He changed the game today. I would like to say this to people who criticise Virat, Rohit Sharma, and Shubman Gill, that they should stop, become your child’s support so that we keep making progress.”

Kohli broke record after record during this year’s Champions Trophy as he become the record holder for most catches by an Indian in international cricket.

Kohli’s knock wasn’t the only key moment in India’s chase. Axar Patel’s late cameo made a huge difference. His quickfire 28 off 24 balls, featuring a four and three sixes, ensured India crossed the finish line. Axar pushed through discomfort after appearing to twist his knee but continued to bat aggressively, which earned praise from Yograj.

“Cricket is a religion in our country. When these players, who give their blood and sweat for us, fall, pick them up. When they feel sad, console them. When they cannot walk, then lift them on your shoulders. Hardik’s knee was twisted. But he scored some sixes and stood for his country. People should learn from this. He did get himself a runner. People should be positive, irrespective of win or loss. If you keep talking down on a player, he goes down forever,” Yograj said.

With this victory, India secured a spot in the final, where they will face the winner of South Africa vs. New Zealand. Yograj confidently predicted that India would go all the way:

“India is in the finals today. The final will be between New Zealand and India, and India will win.”

Anyways, we will know on Sunday March 9th how that turned out.