Gautam Gambhir, Ajit Agarkar Consider Dropping Axar Patel After India’s Test Humiliation

India’s Selection Shake-Up: Axar Patel on the Chopping Block

The Ajit Agarkar-led national selection committee is set to convene soon to finalize India’s squads for the upcoming one-off Test against Afghanistan and the subsequent three-match ODI series. With the Test match scheduled from June 6 to 10 in New Chandigarh, and ODIs to follow in Dharamshala, Lucknow, and Chennai, the board is prioritizing stability and experience ahead of crucial overseas challenges against Sri Lanka and New Zealand.

Consistency Over Experimentation

With major tours on the horizon, the Indian team management is reluctant to experiment heavily in the Afghanistan series. The emphasis remains on fielding a settled squad composed largely of players who’ve been part of the recent Test cycle. This continuity is seen as vital for building cohesion and resilience under diverse conditions.

Jasprit Bumrah’s Workload Under Scrutiny

One of the key concerns for selectors is managing Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness after a grueling IPL season. To prevent burnout, the pace spearhead may be rested from either the Test or the ODI leg of the Afghanistan series—but not both. If Bumrah features in the Test, he could be given a break during the ODIs, and vice versa. This strategic rotation reflects the BCCI’s long-term vision for player management.

Axar Patel’s Place in Jeopardy

The most significant potential omission from the Test squad could be veteran all-rounder Axar Patel. Despite his past reliability, Patel’s spot in the spin department is now under serious threat. Current indications suggest that Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Washington Sundar are almost certain picks, leaving little room for Axar.

Aftermath of a Historic Defeat

This decision is being influenced by India’s shocking 2-0 Test series loss to South Africa at home—a rare setback. The second Test defeat by 408 runs marked India’s heaviest margin of defeat by runs in Test history. In the wake of that humiliation, the selectors are under pressure to reassess underperforming players.

Why Axar Is Facing the Heat

Though Axar scored 42 runs and claimed two wickets in the first Test, his overall impact was minimal. He bowled just 20 overs across the series and was left out of the second Test entirely to accommodate an extra pacer. His dismissal in the second innings of the first Test—where he was dismissed recklessly while chasing 124—drew criticism, especially as India failed to close out a manageable target.

Rising Pressure From Young Talent

The selectors are also eyeing the future. Young spinner Manav Suthar is reportedly being viewed as a potential replacement, signaling a shift toward nurturing fresh talent. Meanwhile, fast bowler Gurnoor Brar, who has impressed in domestic circuits, may earn his maiden call-up, further intensifying competition.

While Axar Patel’s experience could still save his place, the writing appears to be on the wall. With the BCCI focused on rejuvenating the squad for the upcoming World Test Championship cycle and the 2027 ODI World Cup, tough decisions are inevitable.

The upcoming selection meeting will not just shape India’s short-term plans, but could also mark the beginning of a generational transition in Indian cricket.