Indian World Cup winner Sandeep Patil feels that Axar Patel’s injury is a blessing in disguise for the Indian team going into the ODI World Cup on home soil. Ravichandran Ashwin replaced the injured left-handed all-rounder who didn’t recover in time for the ODI World Cup in the country.

Due to the unavailability of Axar Patel, R Ashwin was selected for the India ODI team for the Australia series and made the most of his opportunities producing some good performances and eventually replaced the Southpaw in the ODI World Cup squad and can be crucial for the team’s chances in the marquee event.

Speaking in a contract signing event between the East Bengal cricket team and sponsors Shrachi Group, Sandeep Patil hailed Ravichandran Ashwin as the best off-spinner in World cricket and shared his thoughts for Axar Patel, who was unlucky to be unable to attend the major event in India.

“Ashwin’s inclusion wasn’t a surprise at all. Not at all. He’s the best off-spinner in world cricket today and I’m happy to see he’s in. I also feel sorry for Axar, who got injured. But then, you know, it was a blessing in disguise (for India),” Sandeep Patil said.

The selectors decided to include Ravichandran Ashwin in the ODI World Cup in Axar Patel’s place because of his outstanding performance for the Indian squad during the three-match ODI series and the veteran would play an important role for the team, especially in the spin-friendly conditions.

We Only Hope Things Go Well And They Bring Back The World Cup – Sandeep Patil

In the lead-up to the ODI World Cup in India, Sandeep Patil believes that India has excellent balance and form. He also thinks that the team must manage pressure throughout the competition and he implores the squad to perform well and take home the title.

“We have a fine team, great balance and the team’s in good nick and form, which is so important.”

“But to sustain that for a long period is difficult. By mid-tournament, we’ll come to know where the teams actually stand. Also, it’s up to Rahul (Dravid) and the team management as to how they handle the situation to ensure players deal with the pressure of playing at home. We only hope things go well and they bring back the World Cup,” Sandeep Patil added.

All eyes will be on the Indian team as players would be desperate to end their long wait for an ICC title. The Men in Blue have recently failed to do well in ICC competitions, including their failure in the 2023 WTC final. Rohit Sharma-led side will look to start their campaign with victory, when they take on mighty Australia in their World Cup opener on October 8th in Chennai.