Axar Patel is one of India’s most reliable all-rounders in modern cricket. A left-handed batter and left-arm orthodox spinner, Axar has become an important player for Team India across all formats. He represents Gujarat in domestic cricket and captains Delhi Capitals in the IPL.
Axar made his ODI debut for India in 2014 and was part of India’s squad for the 2015 Cricket World Cup. His Test debut came in 2021 against England, where he made an immediate impact by taking seven wickets. He is among the few Indian bowlers to register a five-wicket haul on Test debut.
In the IPL, Axar first played for Kings XI Punjab before becoming a key player for Delhi Capitals. One of his most memorable IPL moments came in 2016 when he picked up four wickets in just five balls, including a hat-trick.
Over the years, Axar has contributed significantly to India’s success in ICC tournaments, including the 2024 and 2026 T20 World Cups and the 2025 Champions Trophy. He currently serves as India’s vice-captain in T20 Internationals and is valued for the balance he provides with both bat and ball.
Axar Patel Name Story
The Typo That Changed Axar‘s Name
One of the most surprising facts about Axar is that his real name is actually “Akshar” Patel. The change happened because his school principal mistakenly wrote “Axar” on his school leaving certificate. By the time the error was noticed, the spelling had already appeared on his passport and official records. As a result, the name “Axar” stayed permanently. However, many of his close friends still call him Akshar.
Axar Patel Family and Inspiration
His Grandmother’s Last Wish Motivated Him
Axar was not always deeply interested in cricket during his childhood. However, his grandmother had one emotional wish — she wanted to see him wearing the Indian jersey on television. Sadly, she passed away before his international debut. Learning about her dream motivated Axar to work harder and pursue cricket seriously. He eventually fulfilled that promise when he debuted for India in 2014.
Axar Patel Education and Early Life
From Engineering Dreams to Cricket Stardom
Before becoming a professional cricketer, Axar wanted to become a mechanical engineer. He was an excellent student and reportedly topped his class until the 10th standard. Interestingly, he initially tried avoiding cricket practice and preferred playing casual gully cricket with friends. His father, however, recognised his talent early and pushed him towards professional cricket.
MS Dhoni and Axar Patel Nickname
Why MS Dhoni Calls Axar Patel “Bapu”
Axar famous nickname “Bapu” was given to him by MS Dhoni. Dhoni reportedly felt it sounded unusual to repeatedly say “Well bowled, Axar” during matches. Since Axar and Ravindra Jadeja both come from Gujarat, Dhoni started calling him “Bapu.” The nickname became extremely popular after it was heard on the stump mic during matches.
Axar Patel Test Cricket Record
Fastest Indian to 50 Test Wickets
Axar created history in Test cricket by becoming the fastest Indian bowler, in terms of balls bowled, to complete 50 Test wickets. He achieved the milestone in only 2,205 deliveries, breaking the previous Indian record held by Jasprit Bumrah, who reached the landmark in 2,465 balls. The achievement highlighted Axar’s incredible impact in the longest format of the game.
FAQs About Axar Patel
What type of player is Axar Patel?
Axar is a left-handed batter and a left-arm orthodox spinner.
Which IPL team does Axar Patel play for?
Axar plays for Delhi Capitals and also captains the franchise.
What made Axar Patel’s Test debut special?
Axar took seven wickets against England on his Test debut and became one of the few Indian bowlers to claim a five-wicket haul in their first Test match.
What famous IPL achievement does Axar Patel have?
Axar took four wickets in five balls, including a hat-trick, during an IPL match in 2016.
What role does Axar Patel currently have in India’s T20I team?
Axar is the vice-captain of India’s T20 International team.
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