IPL 2023: “We Need Someone to Play the Finisher’s Role” – Pravin Amre on Axar Patel

Delhi Capitals (DC) assistant coach Pravin Amre has revealed the reason behind sending Axar Patel at No. 7 instead of promoting him up in the batting order in IPL 2023. Amre added that Delhi Capitals need the all-rounder to play the finisher’s role. With Axar being in sublime form with the bat, several experts have questioned the decision not to give him more chances up in the batting order, especially with captain David Warner struggling.

Axar Patel has arrived in IPL 2023 after a stunning Test series against Australia, finishing as India’s second-highest run-getter with three fifties to his name as well. Wile speaking at a press conference ahead of facing the Gujarat Titans (GT), Amre stated:

“Axar has the ability to finish the game. We need someone to play the finisher’s role. He has struck the highest number of sixes for us this season. Therefore, we have to hold him back sometimes, so that he can play the finisher’s role in the batting order.”

However, despite Delhi Capitals suffering six losses, Amre said that he still has faith in the side as teams have shown stunning comebacks in the past. He added:

IPL 2023: Axar Patel impressed everyone with his all-round performance

“Many teams have made comebacks after a poor start in the IPL. That’s the beauty of this tournament. Any team can beat any side. That’s why we have to give our best. It’s going to be challenging for us to play against Gujarat. But you never know, what can happen in the IPL. We have to stay in the present and focus on taking the two points in our next game. Our middle order has to bat better and we’ll look to improve our batting in the death overs.”

David Warner and Co. lost their first five matches before registering two back-to-back wins as well. However, their winning run was short as SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) beat them in their last game. Delhi Capitals are currently placed at the bottom of the points table.

Earlier, former Indian player Sunil Gavaskar said that Axar Patel must replace David Warner as Delhi Capitals captain. In eight IPL 2023 matches, he has smashed 211 runs at an average of 35.17 in addition to taking seven wickets as well.

He said while speaking to Star Sports: “I believe Axar Patel should be appointed the captain of Delhi Capitals. He is an honest player. He’s in a good rhythm. The Indian team can benefit from him being named the captain of the franchise and performing well. All these things should be done in a long run.”