Why is Axar Patel Out for the 4th T20I? Shahbaz Ahmed Steps In!
Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, India's all-rounder Axar Patel is out of the remaining T20I matches against South Africa due to illness. Shahbaz Ahmed has been named as his replacement, adding an exciting twist to the series. Will India's squad hold strong without their key players? Find out more about this crucial series.
Key Takeaways
Axar Patel is out of the series due to health issues.
Shahbaz Ahmed has been named as his replacement.
Jasprit Bumrah's availability remains uncertain.
India leads the series 2-1 after winning the third T20I.
The next matches are crucial for India to maintain their lead.
Mumbai, Dec 15 (NationPress) India all-rounder Axar Patel has been sidelined from the remaining two matches of the five-match T20I series against South Africa due to health issues. He was also absent from the third T20I held in Dharamshala.
Despite this, he remains with the team in Lucknow, where he will undergo further medical evaluation.
The Men’s Selection Committee has appointed Shahbaz Ahmed as his replacement for the upcoming T20I matches in Lucknow and Ahmedabad. The 31-year-old has already made five appearances for India, with his last match occurring in October 2023 during the Asian Games.
In addition to Patel, India also missed their pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah in the third game. His availability for the next two matches remains uncertain as he had to return home for personal matters.
Despite these absences, India comfortably clinched victory in the third T20I, taking a 2-1 lead in the series. The series decider is scheduled for Ahmedabad on December 19, following the match in Lucknow on December 17.
India’s updated squad for the final two T20Is includes: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Shubman Gill (VC), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Sanju Samson (WK), Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Washington Sundar, Shahbaz Ahmed.
Point of View
The absence of Axar Patel and Jasprit Bumrah raises concerns about India's depth in the squad. While Shahbaz Ahmed brings experience, the team must adapt quickly to maintain their competitive edge in the ongoing series against South Africa. The challenges are significant, but the resilience of the Indian cricket team has always shone through in tough times.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Axar Patel ruled out of the T20I series?
Axar Patel has been ruled out due to illness.
Who is replacing Axar Patel in the squad?
Shahbaz Ahmed has been named as Axar Patel's replacement.
What is the current status of Jasprit Bumrah?
Jasprit Bumrah's availability for the next matches is uncertain as he returned home for personal reasons.
What was the outcome of the third T20I match?
India won the third T20I against South Africa, taking a 2-1 lead in the series.
When and where is the next T20I match scheduled?
The next T20I match will be held in Lucknow on December 17, followed by the series finale in Ahmedabad on December 19.
