Team India’s T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav, had a lighthearted and endearing reaction to Axar Patel‘s recent Instagram post about a special felicitation ceremony held in his honour. The Gujarat government organized this event to celebrate Axar’s crucial role in India’s triumph in the T20 World Cup 2024.
Axar Patel’s crucial role in India’s triumph
Axar emerged as a key figure for India throughout the tournament, often stepping up in critical moments, both with the bat and the ball. His ability to rescue the team from difficult situations, including a match-winning 47-run knock in the final against South Africa, made him an invaluable asset to the squad. Axar’s all-round performance was pivotal in ending India’s 11-year T20 World Cup trophy drought. His versatility as a bowler, able to contribute in all phases of the game, and his ability to add depth to the batting lineup, were instrumental in India’s success.
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A moment of pride
At the ceremony, Gujarat’s Chief Minister, Bhupendra Patel, honoured Axar’s father, Rajesh Patel, in his son’s absence, highlighting the pride and recognition the state felt for Axar’s achievements.
Axar shared a video of the event on Instagram, expressing his gratitude towards his father, whom he credited as his greatest inspiration and the reason he pursued cricket. In the caption, Axar wrote about how much the moment meant to him, emphasizing his father’s significant role in his life and career.
“Yesterday was a very special day. The Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri @bhupendrapbjp honoured my father on my behalf, and I can’t express in words what a moment of pride this is for me. He’s the reason I started playing cricket and the person I owe everything in my life to. Thank you, Papa, for being my greatest inspiration. તમારા જેવા કોઈ નથી,” Axar wrote.
Suryakumar, known for his witty and playful nature, commented on Axar’s post with, “Isss bar ye situation me PAPA aage aa gaye,” humorously acknowledging how Axar’s father took the spotlight on this special occasion. This comment reflects the camaraderie and bond shared between the players, with Surya playfully noting the rare moment when the usually behind-the-scenes figure, Axar’s father, became the center of attention.
Following the T20 World Cup, Rohit Sharma retired from the shortest format, leading to Suryakumar’s appointment as the new T20I captain. His leadership started on a high note, with a 3-0 series win against Sri Lanka, where Axar continued to shine as India’s leading spin-bowling all-rounder. After a short break post the Sri Lanka series, both Suryakumar and Axar are set to return to the field in the upcoming Duleep Trophy, continuing their contributions to Indian cricket.
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