Former cricketer Dodda Ganesh questions India's batting strategy in New Zealand
The former player argued that using Axar Patel at number 5 in SENA countries is not a long-term solution.
Former India cricketer Dodda Ganesh has questioned the decision to use Axar Patel at number 5 during overseas matches, according to the Times of India. Ganesh expressed his reservations on X regarding Patel's suitability for the role in SENA countries, which include South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia.
Ganesh stated that while Patel could play a cameo, he is not a long-term solution at that position. He also claimed 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 while chasing 135. Patel, promoted to number 5, scored seven runs before being dismissed.
During the rain-affected match, Rahul remained unbeaten on 26 to provide stability as India reached 113/7 in 26 overs. The match ended when rain intervened, leaving India four runs ahead of the DLS par score to secure a four-wicket win.
India currently holds a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. The bowling performance included career-best figures of 4/30 from Gurnoor Brar, while Auqib Nabi and Anshul Kamboj took two wickets each.