IND vs SA: A 5-match T20 series is being played between India and South Africa. India has taken a 2-1 lead in the series with the win in the third match. Now the next match of the series will be played in Lucknow. But before this match, the Indian team has suffered a big setback. The team’s experienced spin all-rounder Akshar Patel has been ruled out of the remaining series. Akshar is considered an important pillar of the team not only for his economical bowling but also for his aggressive batting in the lower order.

Axar Patel was not included in the playing eleven in the third T20 played in Dharamshala. It is being told that his health was not well. Due to which he is now out of the series. However, Akshar is still in Lucknow with the team. In his place, young all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed, who made a splash in IPL and domestic cricket, has been included in the team.

Why is Akshar Patel’s exit a big loss?

Akshar Patel was in excellent form for some time. His ability to stop runs in the powerplay and middle overs has been a big weapon for the captain. Akshar’s experience could have proved very useful for Team India on the Lucknow pitch, which often helps spinners. In his absence, it will be a challenge to maintain the balance of the bowling attack.

India’s team for the remaining matches

Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Shubman Gill (vice-captain), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Verma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dubey, Jitesh Sharma (wicketkeeper), Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper), Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakraborty, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Washington Sundar, Shahbaz Ahmed.