IPL 2021: ‘Didn’t think too much about my COVID-19 positive test report,’ says DC spinner Axar Patel

IPL 2021: ‘Didn’t think too much about my COVID-19 positive test report,’ says DC spinner Axar Patel

Axar Patel

Delhi Capitals (DC) spinner Axar Patel made a brilliant comeback in the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Patel played his maiden game of the season against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) after recovering from COVID-19.  

The 27-year-old bowled an economical spell of 4-0-26-2 during match 20 of IPL 2021. Following this, the DC spinner also bowled an outstanding Super Over where he conceded just seven runs and as a result, the Delhi-based franchise clinched the game. Axar said that he didn’t think much about his COVID-19 positive test report and focused on the basics while recording from it. 

“I was ready, the team management asked me how I was feeling, they asked me about my body and whether it will be able to take the pressure. They asked me whether I can play and then I said that I am match ready. After that, it was the decision of the management,” said Axar during a virtual post-match press conference.

Also Read | IPL 2021: Ravichandran Ashwin to ‘take a break’ from tournament to support family during fight against COVID-19

“Before Covid-19, I was bowling nicely. I carried that confidence, I was not thinking much about Covid-19 and after testing negative for Covid-19, if I keep thinking about my positive Covid-19 test. The teammates used to call me and talk to me. I was looking to back my rhythm. I was following the basics, I spent some time in the nets,” he added.

‘We looked to bowl slow against Williamson’: Axar

Kane Williamson
Kane Williamson

SRH top-order batsman Kane Williamson emerged as the top-scorer for his side with a steady knock of 66* runs in 51 deliveries. Patel said that the DC bowlers didn’t give him much pace and looked to bowl wicket-to-wicket.

When asked about his bowling plans to Williamson, Axar said: “Kane Williamson takes time when he walks out to the crease, we were looking to not give pace on the ball, we were looking to bowl slowly and not give him flight. I was looking to bowl stump-to-stump.”

Also Read | IPL 2021: Royal Challengers Bangalore’s Adam Zampa and Kane Richardson pull out of tournament