Axar Patel: 'I'm not thinking about any rivalry, I see it as just a match' - comments after defeating Pakistan
Indian cricketer Axar Patel downplays the rivalry with Pakistan, emphasizing his focus on treating each match as an individual challenge.
After India's recent victory over Pakistan in a highly anticipated cricket match, star all-rounder Axar Patel shared his thoughts on the competitive nature of the India-Pakistan rivalry. In an interview following the game, Patel insisted that he views the Pakistani team as just another opponent, rather than a fierce rival, stating, 'We see them as a team, so we are not thinking about this rivalry or anything else.' His comments highlight a shift in mindset where the focus is directed solely towards the game of cricket itself, rather than the emotional weight often associated with matches against Pakistan.
India secured a convincing 61-run victory over Pakistan, exemplifying their dominance in the match. Despite the historical pressure that both teams experience during these encounters, Patel's remarks suggest a more relaxed approach, advocating for a view of the match independent of the rivalry narrative that typically surrounds it. He believes that maintaining focus on the game rather than engaging in thoughts about rivalry allows for better performance and mental clarity on the field.
The choice of strategy in the match, including bringing Kuldeep Yadav into the lineup in place of pace bowler Arshdeep Singh, reflects India's tactical adaptability. With India continually evolving in their approach to high-stakes matches against Pakistan, Patel's comments resonate with their commitment to focusing on individual match-ups and in-game strategies over historical tensions. As both teams prepare for future encounters, the evolution of such perceptions could play a significant role in how these matches unfold.