Rishabh Pant Sent Clear Message: Champions Trophy Chances 'Delayed' Due To This Star

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has vouched for all-rounder Axar Patel's inclusion in the playing XI for the upcoming Champions Trophy. Axar was promoted up the order in the first ODI against England, and the southpaw lit up India's 249-run chase with a 47-ball 52, adding 108-runs for the fourth wicket with vice-captain Shubman Gill. While Axar's ability with the ball was never in doubt, Manjrekar feels that he has time and time again proved his credentials as a batter.

"Before the match started, there was a suggestion from me that maybe Rishabh Pant could be tried only with the Champions Trophy in mind. Plus, India would have a left-hander in the top six or seven. Axar Patel is a great option to have because this is a guy, we have seen him bat in Test matches for India and he has a batter's temperament," said Manjrekar on ESPNCricinfo.

Manjrekar also hailed Axar's ability to play spin, adding that the southpaw could come in handy for the team in Champions Trophy with pitches likely to help spinners.

"Boy, he looked good against spinners (in the first ODI). India have had a problem in the middle overs where they have struggled to find batters who are competent against spin. Because this Champions Trophy is going to be played in our part of the world, there's going to be a lot of spin impact on the games," he added.

Manjrekar also hinted that wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant might have to wait for his chances with Axar proving his mettle as a left-handed batter in the middle.

"Axar Patel is a terrific option to have in the middle, thereby perhaps delaying Rishabh Pant's chances of coming back in. Now, they have found a left-hander that they can bat in the middle," Manjrekar concluded.

The Indian team could be forced