In a recent statement, former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has raised concerns regarding the exclusion of all-rounder Axar Patel from the playing eleven in the match against South Africa. Ashwin emphasized the importance and contributions of Patel to the team, suggesting that his value to the squad transcends traditional metrics.

This development comes amidst growing discussions within the cricket community regarding team selection and strategy, especially with major tournaments like the ICC Cricket World Cup looming. Ashwin's insights reflect a deeper analysis of players' roles within the squad and the tactical considerations that coaches must weigh when finalizing lineups.

The criticism of team selections is not uncommon in cricket, where expert opinions often shape public perception and fan expectations. Ashwin’s comments highlight the ongoing debate over the balance between experience and form, particularly when assessing players' contributions in high-pressure games. This situation may prompt selectors and team management to re-evaluate their strategies ahead of critical matches.