The left-arm spinner grabbed the fifth fifer of his career in as many Tests on Saturday. He is only the fourth bowler ever to reach the magnificent feat.
However, it wasn’t all rosy when Day 3 kicked off. Axar Patel was wicketless after 10 overs and India was still searching for their first wicket. His 5/62 broke the back of the Black Caps’ middle-order and helped the hosts take a 49-run lead. Speaking at the post-day press conference, Axar Patel explained his side of the story saying:
Four of Patel’s five wickets came from the wide of the crease angle. With his variations of pace and the enhanced help from the surface, he built pressure by confusing the New Zealand batters about whether the ball will turn or go straight. This, in turn, induced edges and false strokes.
Ajinkya Rahane and Rahul Dravid created a calm environment in the dressing room: Axar Patel
Axar Patel also talked about his team’s overall comeback from a poor showing on Day 2. He said skipper Ajinkya Rahane and head coach Rahul Dravid kept the team environment calm and asked them to play the patient game by building pressure towards the first breakthrough. The all-rounder added:
Axar Patel added:
India lost one wicket in their second innings in the form of Shubman Gill. The hosts are still 63 runs ahead and will look to take it to at least 200 on Sunday.
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