India all-rounder Axar Patel who has been promoted as vice-captain for the Suryakumar Yadav-led side for the upcoming five-match T20I series against England said that the transition phase is coming in the Indian Cricket Team. The reports of transition came in after veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket midway during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.
India vice-captain Axar Patel believes that he doesn't need to prove anything and that his performance will cement his place automatically in the team.
"Yes, a transition phase is coming, and ultimately, it's the selectors' and captain's call. I don't feel the need to prove anything to anyone," Axar gave an uncomplicated answer.
"My approach is to focus on fulfilling the role assigned to me and continuously improving myself. If I perform well, my place in the team will take care of itself automatically."
Axar also believes that he is a format player and his main focus is doing well rather than proving anything to anyone.
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"I just keep telling myself that I have played all three formats be it Tests, ODIs, or T20s. My focus is on doing well whenever I get an opportunity, rather than feeling the need to prove anything to anyone, whether I'm picked or not.
"I don't take the pressure of thinking that I deserve a spot. It is always about the team combination and whether there is any room for me."
Suryakumar Yadav-led India are currently in Kolkata for the first T20I against England which will take place on January 22 at Eden Gardens. This will be India's first international outing after the dismal show in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.
He wasn't disappointed when he didn't make the cut for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as it was not meant to be. Instead, he concentrated on a T20I series in South Africa where he played all the games.
"When it comes to selection or the Australia series, I think more about where I can get opportunities rather than whether I deserve a place.
"It's all part of a cricketer's journey -- only 15 players can be in the squad and you can't take your place for granted. I don't think in those terms."