Full Name: Axar Rajeshbhai Patel Born: January 20, 1994 (Anand, Gujarat, India) Role: Bowling All-rounder Batting Style: Left-hand bat Bowling Style: Slow left-arm orthodox Jersey Number: 20 (India and Delhi Capitals) Axar Patel, also known as Akshar Patel early in his career, is a key member of India’s all-round arsenal. Known for his miserly left-arm spin, clean hitting down the order, and calm temperament, Axar has become a go-to man for India in all formats, especially in challenging conditions. Born in Nadiad and raised in Anand, Gujarat, Axar initially wanted to be a fast bowler. However, a coach’s suggestion to switch to spin due to his lanky frame and natural control transformed his career path. He first came into the limelight during the 2013–14 domestic season for Gujarat, especially in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he impressed with both bat and ball. His consistent performances earned him an IPL contract with the Mumbai Indians in 2013, although he didn’t get a game that season. His real breakthrough came in IPL 2014, playing for Kings XI Punjab (KXIP). Axar finished that season with 17 wickets, contributing significantly to Punjab’s run to the final. His performances earned him the Emerging Player of the Year award and eventually a national call-up. Axar made his ODI debut for India in June 2014 against Bangladesh and quickly established himself as a reliable option in the limited-overs squad. Known for his flat trajectory, pinpoint accuracy, and ability to bowl economically under pressure, Axar became a valuable asset during India’s white-ball tours between 2015 and 2017. However, with the rise of spinners like Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar temporarily slipped out of contention. He made a stunning comeback in Test cricket in 2021, when he was called up as a replacement for Ravindra Jadeja in the home series against England. On a spin-friendly pitch in Chennai, Axar grabbed 7 wickets on debut and followed it with three five-wicket hauls in the next two Tests, ending the series with 27 wickets in just 3 matches — the most by a debutant in a Test series in over a century. With his ability to bat sensibly and clear boundaries lower down the order, Axar has evolved into a potent all-rounder. In the 2022 Asia Cup and T20 World Cup, he was a regular feature in India’s T20 side. He continued to impress in the 2023 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, contributing with both bat and ball, including a match-saving 84 in Delhi that helped India retain the trophy. In the IPL, Axar has grown into a leadership role. Playing for Delhi Capitals, he is a senior figure and was even named vice-captain. His performance in IPL 2023 was among the best for an Indian all-rounder — contributing over 250 runs and picking crucial wickets. Off the field, Axar is known for his grounded personality and quiet focus. In January 2023, he married his longtime girlfriend Meha Patel, a nutritionist. Despite the fame, Axar remains closely tied to his roots in Gujarat. From being overshadowed by bigger names to becoming India’s most consistent spin all-rounder, Axar Patel’s journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and unwavering self-belief.