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Some fans and experts believe that Axar Patel has not been utilized to his full potential in the ongoing T20 World Cup. However, if given the right opportunities, he could play a pivotal role in the T20 World Cup semi-final against England at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday, March 5. 

So far in this high-stakes tournament, Axar has participated in five out of the seven matches India has played. He has taken seven wickets with an average of 20.43 and an economy rate of 7.53. There was some controversy when he was dropped for a couple of matches, a decision that drew heavy criticism from fans and analysts alike. 

In the upcoming semi-final against England, Axar could be crucial, especially since the Three Lions have three right-handed batsmen at the top of their order: Phil Salt, Jos Buttler, and Harry Brook. It wouldn't be surprising to see Axar take the new ball during the power play alongside Arshdeep Singh. 

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Axar has a solid track record against England in T20I cricket. In nine matches, he has claimed nine wickets with an average of 22.11 and an economy rate of 7.37. If he can make an early breakthrough and dismiss even one of those right-handers, it would be a fantastic contribution from the Indian vice-captain. 

In India's last match against the West Indies, which was a must-win for both teams in the Super 8, Axar bowled two overs during the power play. He conceded just five runs in his first over but gave away 10 in the second. 

Ultimately, he ended up with figures of 0/35 in his four overs not exactly a performance he'd want to remember. Still, he was the most economical spinner that night, considering the pitch was a batting paradise. The 32-year-old can expect a bit more assistance from the Wankhede surface on Thursday. If he can get the ball to grip, his knack for targeting the stumps will certainly put the England batsmen under significant pressure.