Former cricketer Dodda Ganesh questions India's batting strategy in New Zealand
The former player argued that using Axar Patel at number 5 is not a long-term solution in SENA countries.
Former India cricketer Dodda Ganesh has questioned the decision to use Axar Patel at number 5 during overseas conditions, according to the Times of India. Ganesh expressed his reservations about Patel's suitability for the role in SENA countries, which include South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia.
Ganesh stated on X that while Patel could play a cameo, he is not a long-term solution at that position. He also claimed that the team management's approach was denying KL Rahul the opportunity to spend more time at the crease.
The comments followed the second ODI against New Zealand in Wellington, where India's batting line-up struggled against the local pace attack. India was chasing a target of 135 after bowling out New Zealand for 134, with bowlers Gurnoor Brar, Auqib Nabi, and Anshul Kamboj taking two or more wickets each.
During the chase, captain Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli fell early, while Axar Patel, promoted to number 5, scored seven runs. KL Rahul remained unbeaten on 26 as rain ended the match when India was at 113/7 in 26 overs.
India secured a four-wicket victory and a 2-0 lead in the five-match series, being four runs ahead of the DLS par score at the time of the rain. The team has frequently moved Rahul to number 6 to maintain a left-right batting combination.