Aaron Finch on why Axar Patel is ‘a serious package in international cricket’ and one thing he’d like to see Shivam Dube do more of

Aaron Finch on Axar Patel and Shivam Dube

Former Australia captain Aaron Finch praised India's all-rounder Axar Patel for his impressive display in the fourth T20I against Australia on the Gold Coast. Patel’s efforts helped India recover from a shaky position and clinch a dominant victory.

India’s comeback against Australia

India’s spin attack turned the match around dramatically, taking six wickets to seal a 48-run win. Washington Sundar, playing for the first time in the series, captured 3 wickets for just 3 runs in 1.2 overs. Axar Patel supported him with figures of 2 for 20, wrapping up Australia’s innings after they collapsed, losing their last nine wickets for just 52 runs.

Axar Patel’s valuable contributions

With the bat, Patel made an unbeaten 21 runs that lifted India’s total beyond the 160 mark when it seemed they might fall short. His late flourish ensured India had a competitive total and later delivered key breakthroughs with his spin.

“He’s somebody who strikes a ball so cleanly, and he gave India a real injection right at the backend of the innings,” said Aaron Finch. “It looked at one stage they might only get around 152-153, but a couple of big blows in the last over off Marcus Stoinis just proved the package that he is. Then with the ball, he’s a wizard at times. On surfaces like this, that might hold a fraction but also skid, he uses all his tricks and skills. Combined with his fielding, he is a serious package in international cricket. It was a wonderful performance today, richly deserved player of the match.”
Summary

Aaron Finch called Axar Patel a complete performer whose combined batting, bowling, and fielding make him one of India’s most valuable assets in international cricket.

Author’s summary: Finch praised Axar Patel’s all-around brilliance, highlighting how his late batting surge and tactical bowling defined India’s strong win against Australia.

more

The Indian Express The Indian Express — 2025-11-07

More News