Axar Patel has picked up eight wickets and scored 97 runs this IPL in nine matches. (Source: BCCI/IPL)
Kings XI Punjab spinner Axar Patel became the only player, so far, to take a hat-trick in the ongoing IPL. The spinner achieved the feat against Gujarat Lions, and helped his bottom-placed side to get some direction in what has otherwise been a disappointing season. Since the win over Gujarat, KXIP came close to beating KKR, beat DD and lost a thriller to RCB by one run on Monday. The young seamer, in an interaction with the indianexpres.com, talks about his team, the combination, the art of maintaining rhythm, and more. Excerpts:
The team has had a turbulent trajectory this season. Most recently, KXIP won over Gujarat Lions, then lost in the final over to Kolkata Knight Riders and on Saturday beat Delhi Daredevils. Can you shed some light on the flow?
Axar Patel: After our losing streak, you need a breakthrough to get back on track. And the win over Gujarat provided that for us. But then we came very close to beating KKR and now won over DD. Basically when you win, you can execute things better. In the bowling department, Mohit Sharma has been doing well in the death overs and I’m doing well in the middle overs. Same way, batsmen also have chance to relax. They know they can count on the bowlers and the bowlers know they would get a reasonable target to defend. Right now, we’ve probably achieved the perfect combination.
With constant team changes in the IPL, how difficult is it for a player?
Axar: As a player, it is difficult to maintain rhythm if you play one and not the next. Additional pressure on the player when he gets back. But IPL is too fast, captains have to change things quickly as well. But the idea remains to keep things simple. Because pressure is there in all formats and for whatever team you play. It is tough for all players and the team needs to back them if not performing well. Players, themselves, should also not lose head.
You took a hat-trick against Gujarat Lions. Did you change things for that? What was going through your mind?
Axar: The preparation has been the same as before – nothing changed. I just did what I usually do, nothing extra or over the top. I’ve been training well so that helps.
In the off-season, have you added any variations or a special skill to your repertoire?
Axar: Nothing extra in particular. I’ve been focusing on my line and length and keeping things simple. I try and bowl slower ones once in a while to keep things different. I try not to bowl a faster one after being hit because that would be the regular thing to do.
How are you looking at getting into the Indian side?
Axar: My focus right now is on the IPL only. Just here, now. I’ll take things from one match to the next. I just need to perform in the IPL and if it happens, it happens.
Are you working on your batting to possibly go into the Indian side as an all-rounder?
Axar: I’ve been focusing on my batting also and I’m satisfied with the work I’m putting in. I’m looking to improve each time be it in the IPL or outside.
Three youngsters have been released by KXIP, does that hurt the image of IPL being a showcase for spotting talent?
Axar: It is not difficult for youngsters. It’s not about the players alone but the coaching staff too. But you’ve got to see that there are many youngsters playing still and that is for all teams. At the end of the day, it is the decision of the staff and there is nothing I can say about it.
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