On Sunday, India's left-arm spin all-rounder Axar Patel spoke about his confidence in carrying forward his batting skills in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia. Patel's confidence proved crucial during day four's play, as he scored an impressive 79 runs, including four sixes and five fours, to help India secure a 91-run lead.
Patel's partnership with Virat Kohli, who scored a magnificent 186, was a key factor in India's success. "The way I'm batting, I am happy to be contributing for the team. I am playing my game, backing my strengths. I am just carrying forward my confidence and batting really well," Patel said to broadcasters at the end of the day's play.
Despite only picking up two wickets in the series, Patel has been a valuable contributor to India's success with the bat. "The talk in the first Test was to carry forward the confidence," he said. "The way I was helping the team win matches last year, that's helping me and giving me more confidence."
Patel is now the third-highest run-scorer in the ongoing series, with 266 runs at an average of 88.00. He had hit crucial fifties in India's victories in Nagpur and New Delhi, and was the only batter to be unbeaten in both innings for the hosts in Indore.
Patel's ability to punish bad balls and respect good deliveries has been key to his success. "Once a batter is set, there isn't a lot in it for the bowlers. There are a few odd balls that stay low due to the footmarks, but once you get set, you get an idea of the wicket and it gets easier," he concluded.
Patel's impressive form with the bat has been a key factor in India's success in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, and his confidence will be a key asset for the team going forward.