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In a candid moment during a Delhi Capitals event, Axar Patel humorously reflected on his history of injuries before World Cups, acknowledging the pressure he feels as the T20 World Cup approaches. His light-hearted comment masked the underlying tension felt by his friends, especially after he sustained an injury to his bowling finger during the first T20I against New Zealand. As Patel prepares for the tournament, his close circle is filled with both laughter and concern, recalling the disappointment of missing the ODI World Cup in 2023.

Axar’s Injury Concerns

Axar Patel’s injury history has become a topic of concern among his friends and fans. During a recent event, he joked about his tendency to get injured before major tournaments, a sentiment that resonated with those close to him. His childhood friend, Keval Patel, expressed his worries after Axar injured his finger while attempting a catch in the first T20I against New Zealand. Keval’s light-hearted message to Axar, urging him to be careful with the World Cup on the horizon, highlights the anxiety surrounding Axar’s fitness. This incident has brought back memories of 2023 when Axar was sidelined from the ODI World Cup due to injury, leaving his friends anxious about a repeat scenario.

Despite the setbacks, Axar’s journey has been remarkable. After the disappointment of 2023, he bounced back to play a crucial role in India’s title-winning squad at the 2024 T20 World Cup. His resilience and determination have been evident as he continues to contribute significantly to the team, both as a player and a leader.

A New Chapter: Fatherhood and Family

In addition to his cricketing achievements, Axar Patel embraced fatherhood with the birth of his son, affectionately nicknamed ‘Chota Patel,’ in December 2024. This new chapter in his life has brought joy and a sense of purpose to Axar and his family. Keval shared how their group, once focused on gaming, now spends time playing with the toddler, emphasising the shift in their dynamics. The arrival of ‘Chota Patel’ has not only strengthened family bonds but also added a new layer of motivation for Axar as he prepares for the World Cup.

As Axar gears up for his first World Cup with his son in the stands, the excitement is palpable. Keval plans to take ‘Chotu’ to one of the matches, marking a significant milestone for both father and son. This experience will be a memorable one for Axar, who hopes to make it special by leading India to victory.

Axar’s Growth as a Player and Leader

Axar Patel has evolved into a key player for India, known for his contributions with both bat and ball. His journey from a promising talent to the captain of the Delhi Capitals and a vital member of the national team showcases his growth. Venugopal Rao, the director of cricket for Delhi Capitals, praised Axar’s game-reading skills and leadership qualities, noting that he has been a part of the team since 2019. His ability to keep the atmosphere light while maintaining a sharp focus on the game has made him an invaluable asset.

Rao recounted how Axar’s leadership potential was recognised even in his early days, leading to his captaincy despite competition from seasoned players like Faf du Plessis and KL Rahul. His journey began in the age-group circuit, where he was dubbed the “Jayasuriya of Nadiad” for his impressive stroke play. Axar’s performance in crucial matches, including a standout display in the 2013-14 Ranji Trophy season, laid the foundation for his successful career.

As he prepares for the T20 World Cup, Axar’s humility and dedication remain unchanged. His friends and family continue to support him, ensuring he stays grounded despite the pressures of international cricket. With a new generation cheering him on, Axar Patel is set to make his mark on the World Cup stage once again.