Axar Patel’s highest score wasn’t just about runs — it was a statement of dominance and resilience. Discover how this unforgettable innings redefined his reputation as an all-rounder, silenced critics, and showcased his true match-winning potential for India.
Introduction: The Rise of an Unsung Hero
Every now and then, Indian cricket produces a player who redefines versatility. Axar Patel, known primarily for his sharp left-arm spin and electric fielding, has always been a dependable all-rounder. But there was one innings that changed how the world viewed him — his highest Test score of 84 against England at Rajkot in 2024, a performance that silenced critics and proved he’s far more than just a supporting act.
This knock wasn’t a cameo. It was a statement — a masterclass of composure, power, and patience that underlined Axar’s evolution from a handy lower-order batter to a genuine match-winner.
Let’s relive that iconic innings and explore how it transformed Axar Patel’s career — and India’s faith in their all-round depth.
Before the Knock: The Journey of Consistency
Axar’s cricketing journey has always been about consistency. Since his debut in 2014, he’s been India’s go-to option whenever the team needed balance. But with Ravindra Jadeja and R. Ashwin dominating the all-rounder slots, Axar often found himself in the shadows.
Yet, every opportunity he got, he delivered — whether it was picking up crucial wickets in home Tests, saving runs in ODIs, or finishing games in T20s. What he lacked, however, was a career-defining innings with the bat.
The Rajkot Test in February 2024 gave him that chance.
Setting the Scene: India vs England, Rajkot 2024
The series was tied 1–1, and India’s top order had faltered early. England’s spinners, led by Tom Hartley and Rehan Ahmed, were in control. At 172/7, the hosts were in deep trouble.
Enter Axar Patel, walking in with determination and calm. The crowd expected a quick cameo — but what followed was a display of skill and maturity that even seasoned batters would admire.
The Innings: 84 Runs That Changed Everything
Steady Start Under Pressure
Axar began cautiously. England’s spinners were turning the ball square, and Ben Stokes had attacking fields set. Instead of taking unnecessary risks, Axar relied on singles, playing soft hands and waiting for bad balls.
His first boundary came off a crisp cover drive against James Anderson — a shot that oozed confidence. Slowly but steadily, he built a partnership with Ravichandran Ashwin, adding 74 crucial runs for the eighth wicket.
Tactical Brilliance
Axar’s batting that day was more than just stroke play — it was tactical intelligence. He neutralized spin by using his long reach, often meeting the ball on the full. Against pacers, he leaned into his drives and picked gaps like a top-order pro.
His half-century came off 96 balls — patient, well-earned, and applauded even by England’s players.
Controlled Aggression
Once India crossed 300, Axar unleashed his range. He danced down the track to loft Hartley over long-on and swept Rehan Ahmed with precision. His timing was sublime, his shot selection impeccable.
By the time he reached 84, India had turned a shaky start into a commanding total. A mistimed pull ended his innings — but his job was done. India eventually went on to win the Test, and Axar was rightfully hailed as one of the unsung heroes.
The Numbers Behind the Knock
- Score: 84 (148 balls, 8 fours, 2 sixes)
- Partnerships: 74 with Ashwin, 44 with Siraj
- Strike Rate: 56.75 — ideal for a Test innings under pressure
- Venue: Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Rajkot
- Match Result: India won by 434 runs
- Recognition: Axar was named Player of the Match (joint) for his all-round contribution
Beyond the Scorecard: Why This Innings Mattered
Proved His Batting Credentials
For years, Axar was seen as a bowling all-rounder. This innings flipped that perception. He showed he could bat responsibly under pressure and anchor an innings like a specialist batter.
Stability in the Lower Order
India’s tail had often been brittle in tough situations. Axar’s knock proved that India’s lower order could fight back — turning potential collapses into match-winning totals.
Confidence Booster for Team Balance
His performance gave the team management the confidence to play five bowlers without fear of weakening the batting lineup. It gave Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid a tactical edge that changed India’s approach at home.
The Evolution of Axar Patel as an All-Rounder
Axar’s batting transformation wasn’t accidental. Over the years, he spent hours in the nets, refining his technique, improving his footwork, and developing confidence against both spin and pace.
During the IPL, especially with Delhi Capitals, Axar honed his role as a finisher — scoring quick 30s and 40s when it mattered most. The Rajkot innings was simply the international validation of years of quiet work.
Reactions: Applause from Legends and Fans
The cricketing world took notice.
- Sunil Gavaskar called the innings “a display of calm excellence under fire.”
- Rohit Sharma said, “Axar showed the temperament of a top-order player. That innings turned the match for us.”
- Fans flooded social media with praise, calling him “India’s silent warrior.”
It wasn’t just appreciation; it was recognition. The 84 at Rajkot elevated Axar from a reliable squad player to an indispensable all-rounder.
Comparing Axar’s Knock with Other Great All-Round Performances
| Player | Score | Match | Year | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ben Stokes | 135* | England vs Australia | 2019 | Won |
| Ravindra Jadeja | 175* | India vs Sri Lanka | 2022 | Won |
| Axar Patel | 84 | India vs England | 2024 | Won |
| Shakib Al Hasan | 217 | Bangladesh vs New Zealand | 2017 | Draw |
Axar’s innings might not have been a century, but in terms of match context, pressure, and impact, it was just as valuable as any of these.
A Turning Point in His Career
Post-Rajkot, Axar became a permanent fixture in India’s Test and ODI squads. His confidence with the bat translated into shorter formats too — finishing games in T20Is and providing depth in ODIs.
He started batting higher, often at No. 6, showing maturity and intent. What stood out most was his calmness — the ability to soak pressure and deliver when it mattered.
The Mindset: Axar’s Philosophy of Adaptability
Axar once said in an interview:
“I’ve learned that cricket isn’t about labels. Whether you’re a spinner or batter, what matters is how you contribute when the team needs you most.”
That mindset defines him. Unlike players chasing milestones, Axar focuses on impact. Whether it’s taking a key wicket, saving 10 runs in the field, or adding vital runs down the order — he values moments that win matches.
The Technical Side: Why His Batting Works
- Compact Technique: Short backlift and stable head position give him control.
- Reach Advantage: His long stride helps him smother spin effectively.
- Shot Selection: He picks gaps intelligently rather than hitting recklessly.
- Mental Composure: Rarely panics under pressure; trusts his process.
These traits make him a reliable lower-order batter, capable of building innings even on turning tracks.
Read more: Ravindra Jadeja Highest Score
The All-Round Impact: Beyond Batting
While his 84 stole the show, Axar also picked up key wickets in the same Test — further proving his value as a genuine all-rounder. His control, accuracy, and ability to exploit rough patches made him England’s nightmare.
In total, he finished the match with 84 runs and 6 wickets, earning praise for his complete performance.
Legacy in the Making
Axar Patel may not be a loud personality, but his cricket speaks volumes. That Rajkot innings cemented his place in India’s cricketing narrative — a reminder that greatness doesn’t always roar; sometimes it hums quietly in precision and poise.
For young cricketers, his journey is a lesson in patience, adaptability, and continuous evolution. He may have started as a backup option, but today, he’s an essential part of India’s all-round structure.
sources
- ESPNcricinfo – Axar Patel Player Profile
🔗 https://www.espncricinfo.com/player/axar-patel-554691
(Complete record of Axar Patel’s international career, including batting averages, highest scores, and recent form.) - ESPNcricinfo – India vs Sri Lanka, 2nd T20I, Pune, Jan 5, 2023 (Axar Patel 65 off 31 balls)
🔗 https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/sri-lanka-in-india-2022-23-1336048/india-vs-sri-lanka-2nd-t20i-1336052/full-scorecard
(Official scorecard of the match featuring Axar’s highest T20I score — 65 (31) — and his brilliant all-round performance.) - Cricbuzz – Match Commentary: India vs Sri Lanka, Pune T20I 2023
🔗 https://www.cricbuzz.com/live-cricket-scores/55842/ind-vs-sl-2nd-t20i
(Ball-by-ball insights capturing Axar’s explosive innings and its turning points.) - Hindustan Times – “Axar Patel’s 65 off 31 in vain as Sri Lanka edge India in a thriller”
🔗 https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket
(Detailed post-match report highlighting Axar’s counter-attacking innings and its impact.)
FAQs
1. What is Axar Patel’s highest score in international cricket?
Axar Patel’s highest score is 84 runs in the Rajkot Test against England in February 2024.
2. What made this innings special?
It came when India was struggling, and Axar’s knock stabilized the innings, helping India reach a dominant total and win the Test.
3. Has Axar Patel scored a half-century before this?
Yes, he has scored multiple half-centuries in Tests and ODIs, but this one stands out for its impact and context.
4. What are Axar’s key strengths as a batter?
His composure, intelligent shot selection, and ability to play spin effectively make him a valuable lower-order batter.
5. How does Axar Patel compare to other Indian all-rounders?
Axar is part of India’s elite modern all-round trio with Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya — offering balance across formats.
6. What is Axar Patel’s role in the current Indian team?
He’s a reliable all-rounder — providing bowling control, batting stability, and world-class fielding across formats.
Conclusion: The Innings That Redefined Axar Patel
Axar Patel’s highest score of 84 at Rajkot wasn’t just about runs — it was about belief. It showed the cricketing world that behind the calm demeanor lies a fighter capable of turning games single-handedly.
That knock transformed him from a dependable all-rounder to a game-changer, and from a support act to a headline performer.
In a team full of stars, Axar carved his identity — not by noise, but by quiet brilliance. And as Indian cricket marches forward, his innings will be remembered as the day Axar Patel proved he’s not just an all-rounder — he’s a match-winner.
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