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‘Bula toh liya par khelega nah?’ – Fans react as Washington Sundar reportedly to replace injured Axar Patel in India squad ahead of Asia Cup 2023 Final

Axar Patel had injuries during the Bangladesh clash in the Asia Cup 2023.

Washington Sundar
Washington Sundar (Image Source: Twitter)

On 17 September, Team India will lock horns with Sri Lanka in the final of the Asia Cup 2023 in Colombo. But, on 15 September, they suffered a humiliating 6-run loss against Bangladesh in their last ‘Super 4’ game. Axar Patel played a fighting 42-run knock but failed to win the game. During the game, Axar sustained multiple injuries.

Now, as reported by Cricbuzz, Axar Patel is set to miss the final and Washington Sundar is most likely to replace him in the squad. Seeing such a report, fans shared their views on social media. Axar played only two games in this ongoing tournament. Against Sri Lanka, he scored 26 runs with the bat and failed to take any wickets.

Washington Sundar has played 16 ODIs so far

Against the Bangla Tigers. He looked in good rhythm and picked up one wicket. With the bat, he put up a fighting knock but ultimately, it all went in vain. So, it’s a huge blow for Rohit Sharma as it might affect his selection for the upcoming ODI World Cup in India, starting on 5 October. Meanwhile, Washington Sundar last played for Team India in August 2023 against Ireland in the three-match T20I series. He last played an ODI in January 2023. 

In recent times, injury has been a concern for the spinner and hence, he has found it hard to concrete his place within the team. Speaking of his ODI career so far, in 16 matches, Sundar has taken 16 wickets along with 233 runs in 9 innings, including one fifty. In the ‘Super 4’ stage, India defeated the Lankans but spinners from both sides had a great day as the balls were gripping. So, the same kind of pitch is mostly expected in the final as that will give an edge to the home side, the Lankans. Hence, Rohit Sharma might look to include Sundar straight into the playing XI for the big final at the R Premadasa Stadium. 

Here is how fans have reacted:

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