In the much-awaited match between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Delhi Capitals (DC) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, one player’s absence was deeply felt by his team. That player was none other than Axar Patel, who had to sit out due to testing positive for COVID-19. MI’s Faf du Plessis expressed his disappointment over Patel’s absence and praised his skills, stating “Someone like Axar is a big miss for any team.”
Patel, the left-arm spinner, has been a crucial member of the Delhi Capitals squad since his inclusion in 2019. His all-round abilities have made him a valuable asset for the team, especially in the spin-friendly conditions of UAE. However, his absence from the playing XI against MI was a major blow for DC, and it was evident in their performance.
DC’s bowling attack lacked the variation and control that Patel brings to the table. With his accurate left-arm spin, he has the ability to contain the opposition batsmen and take wickets at crucial moments. This was sorely missed by DC as they struggled to contain MI’s strong batting line-up, ultimately resulting in a crushing defeat.
Du Plessis, who himself is a seasoned campaigner in the IPL, knows the importance of having a player like Patel in the team. In his post-match interview, he mentioned how Patel’s absence affected DC’s team balance and their game plan. He also acknowledged Patel’s role in DC’s success so far this season and how his absence was a big loss for the team.
Apart from his bowling, Patel’s contributions with the bat have also been noteworthy. He has the ability to score quick runs in the lower order, which adds depth to DC’s batting line-up. His unbeaten 21 off just 5 balls against Sunrisers Hyderabad earlier in the season is a testament to his batting prowess.
But it’s not just his on-field skills that make Patel a valuable player for DC. He is known for his professionalism, hard work, and team spirit. He is always willing to take up any challenge and give his best for the team, making him a beloved member of the DC family.
His absence also highlights the importance of having a strong backup and support staff in times like these. With the ongoing pandemic, players are susceptible to testing positive for COVID-19, and teams need to have a solid backup plan to deal with such situations. DC, unfortunately, had to face the consequences of not having a suitable replacement for Patel.
As the IPL 2021 continues in the UAE, it is crucial for all teams to have a strong and healthy squad to compete at the highest level. The absence of key players like Axar Patel can significantly impact a team’s performance, as seen in DC’s case. However, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of having a strong team spirit and the ability to adapt to unforeseen circumstances.
Axar Patel’s absence may have been a setback for Delhi Capitals, but it also presents an opportunity for other players to step up and fill his shoes. With Patel expected to return to the squad soon, DC will be looking to bounce back and continue their winning momentum. As for MI, they will be relieved to have defeated a strong team like DC and will be hoping to maintain their form in the remaining matches.
In conclusion, Axar Patel’s absence was deeply felt by Delhi Capitals in their match against Mumbai Indians. His all-round abilities and professionalism make him a valuable player for any team. Faf du Plessis’ words, “Someone like Axar is a big miss for any team,” truly reflect his importance in the DC squad. As fans eagerly await Patel’s return to the playing XI, it is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of sports and the need for a strong team spirit to overcome any obstacle.
