Akshar Patel’s chance to create history: just one wicket away from a ‘century’ in the second T20I against England

Axar Patel, who has emerged as the new star of Indian spin bowling, is on the verge of creating a historic record in the second T20 International match against England to be held at Old Trafford, Manchester on Saturday, July 4. 32-year-old Axar Patel has taken 99 T20 International wickets in his career so far. As he completes his 100th wicket on the Old Trafford pitch, he will become the first Indian spinner to take 100 wickets in T20 International cricket. This achievement will prove to be a milestone not only for his career but also for the Indian spin department. Turn to join the exclusive club: At present, only three fast bowlers and all-rounders in Indian cricket have been able to cross the magical figure of 100 wickets. Arshdeep Singh (131 wickets), Jasprit Bumrah (121 wickets) and Hardik Pandya (114 wickets) are included in this club. With Axar Patel joining this club, he will become the first Indian spinner and fourth Indian bowler overall to do so. Before Akshar, Yuzvendra Chahal (96) and Kuldeep Yadav (95) are in this race, but Akshar is very close to surpassing these two and registering his name in the pages of history. Incomplete mission and challenge of Manchester Axar Patel had a chance to make this record in the first T20 match itself, but rain in Chester-le-Street spoiled his intentions. Due to lack of opportunity to bowl due to rain in the second innings, he remained at 99 wickets. Now the conditions at Old Trafford are favorable for him and the fans hope that he will soon make this record in his name with his deadly spin against the England batsmen. Axar’s recent form has been excellent, he has played a key role in India winning two consecutive T20 World Cup titles. Team India’s strategy and playing eleven: India does not want to disturb its winning combination for the second match against England. Bowling coach Morne Morkel has clearly indicated that there is no possibility of change in the team at present, due to which young Vaibhav Suryavanshi will have to wait longer. The team management has full faith in the current bowlers, while this match is going to be very important for Sanju Samson to prove his usefulness in the batting order. Akshar is now eyeing to create history on the pitch of Old Trafford.