After loss vs KKR, former IND batter raises question on DC skipper Axar Patel's batting, says 'when he comes to bat...'

Delhi Capitals (DC) endured another tough loss in the ongoing IPL 2026 season, failing to defend 143 runs against Ajinkya Rahane-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). KKR opener Finn Allen was the star of the chase with unbeaten 100 off 47 which dismantled DC's bowling attack.

Cheteshwar Pujara makes big claim on Axar Patel's batting

However, DC skipper Axar Patel had another forgetful outing with the bat against KKR, scoring only 11 runs despite facing 22 balls. The left-handed batter was visibly struggling in rotating the strike which caused pressure on the next batters. Though, the left-arm spinner managed to claim one wicket for just 27 runs in four overs.

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Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara has opened upon Axar Patel's tough season, noting that the star left-arm spin all-rounder is taking too much pressure on himself, as he is following a defensive approach in the ongoing season. Pujara has urged Axar to express himself by freely playing his shots even if he gets out in the process.

“But if we talk only about Axar’s batting, his approach looks a bit conservative. In my opinion, he is an attacking player. He should bat in an attacking style because even if he gets out, it is not a big issue," said Pujara on Star Sports.

While continuing, Pujara compared Axar to Sunil Narine noting the similar attacking nature. Pujara believes that Axar should dominate bowlers right from the start, rather than trying to get settled in.

"He is a player like Sunil Narine, where when he comes to bat, the bowlers are already under pressure. His job is not to settle in. He should just come and play his shots. He does not need to get set. Because when he plays his shots, the bowlers come under pressure. As a batsman, he should not be under pressure himself," added Pujara.

Axar Patel's torrid IPL 2026 season

The star India all-rounder has endured a tough campaign in the ongoing IPL 2026 season with both bat and ball. The DC skipper managed to amass only 44 runs from 11 games at an average of 6.29 and a strike rate of 74.58. On the other hand, the story remains the same with the ball as well, clinching only 10 wickets in 11 games at an economy rate of 8.08 amid DC's overall struggles.