Axar Patel
| Axar Patel | |
|---|---|
| |
| Born | 20 January 1994 (age 31) Anand, Gujarat, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Cricketer (All-rounder) |
| Years active | 2012–present |
| Known for | Vice-Captain of India T20I Team Member of 2024 T20 World Cup-winning squad |
| Teams | India (National Team) Gujarat (Domestic) Delhi Capitals (IPL) |
| Awards | BCCI Under-19 Cricketer of the Year (2014) Emerging Player of the Tournament (IPL 2014) |
| Spouse | Meha Patel (m. 2023) |
| Children | Son – Haksh Patel (b. 2024) |
| Religion | Hinduism |
Akshar Rajeshbhai Patel (born 20 January 1994) is an Indian international cricketer and all-rounder who represents India across all formats. A left-handed batsman and slow left-arm orthodox bowler, he serves as the vice-captain of the Indian T20I team and plays a crucial role for the Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League (IPL).[1]
Patel was a key member of the Indian squad that won the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup and the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Known for his consistent performances, economical bowling, and match-finishing abilities, Axar has established himself as one of India’s most dependable all-rounders in modern cricket.[2]
Early Life and Education
Axar Patel was born on 20 January 1994 in Anand, Gujarat, India, to Rajeshbhai Patel and his wife. He grew up in a close-knit Gujarati family with a strong emphasis on sports and education. Initially aspiring to become a mechanical engineer, Axar’s interest in cricket deepened during his school years when his performances in inter-school matches caught the attention of local coaches.
Encouraged by his father, he joined a cricket academy in Nadiad and honed his skills as a left-arm spinner. His dedication and natural talent soon led to his selection for Gujarat’s Under-19 and Under-23 teams, paving the way for a successful domestic career.[3]
Domestic Career
Axar Patel made his first-class debut for Gujarat in the 2012–13 Ranji Trophy season. His breakthrough came when he took 6 wickets for 55 runs in his second first-class match, showcasing his potential as a future India prospect.
He represented India Under-23 in the 2013 ACC Emerging Teams Cup, helping India clinch the title. For his performances in junior cricket, he was awarded the BCCI Under-19 Cricketer of the Year (2014).
Since then, Patel has been a consistent performer for Gujarat in the Ranji Trophy, contributing both with bat and ball.
IPL Career
Axar began his IPL journey with the Mumbai Indians in 2013 but rose to fame after joining Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) in 2014. His debut season was a breakthrough year where he took 17 wickets, earning the Emerging Player of the Tournament award.
In 2019, he moved to the Delhi Capitals, where he became a central figure in the team’s lineup, known for his tight middle-overs bowling and crucial lower-order runs. As of 2025, Patel captains the Delhi Capitals franchise in the IPL.
International Career
Axar made his ODI debut for India against Bangladesh on 15 June 2014. His steady performances earned him a place in the squad for the 2015 Cricket World Cup. He made his T20I debut the following year and his Test debut in February 2021 against England, taking 7 wickets in his maiden match and finishing the series with 27 wickets in just 3 games.
In the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup, Patel played a pivotal role—scoring a quick 47 runs in the final against South Africa and taking crucial wickets throughout the tournament. He was named the Player of the Match in the semifinal against England.
He was also part of India’s winning squad in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, solidifying his reputation as a big-match performer.
Playing Style
A versatile all-rounder, Axar Patel’s bowling relies on accuracy, sharp turn, and subtle variations in pace, making him effective in both limited-overs and Test formats. His ability to bowl economically during the middle overs has made him a key asset in India’s T20I strategy. With the bat, he is known for his composure and ability to accelerate under pressure.
Personal Life
Axar Patel married Meha Patel on 26 January 2023 in a traditional Gujarati ceremony held in Vadodara. The couple welcomed their son, Haksh, on 19 December 2024.
Off the field, Axar is known for his humble personality and passion for cars and fitness. He often shares training routines and family moments on social media.
Awards and Recognition
- BCCI Under-19 Cricketer of the Year (2014)
- Emerging Player of the Tournament – IPL 2014
- Member of India’s 2024 T20 World Cup and 2025 Champions Trophy winning teams
- Recognized by BCCI and ICC for outstanding all-round performances