Was Axar Patel Actually OUT or NOT OUT During IND vs SA 2nd T20I?

India all-rounder Axar Patel was involved in a controversial decision that didn't went in his favor during the IND vs SA 2nd T20I at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur. The incident happened during the 8th over of the innings.

Fast bowler Ottneil Baartman bowled a fullish delivery going away from Axar, which he tried to slash past the extra cover region. However, the bat turned in his hand and it went straight to Reeza Hendricks at cover, who took it inches from the turf.

Was Axar Patel Out or Not Out?

In the first glance, it wasn't clear whether Axar was out or not out. The on-field umpires decided to refer to the third umpire who checked with multiple angles. In the end, he confirmed that the hands were underneath the ball and the fielder had taken the ball cleanly, thus ruling it out. The decision was correct given the available camera angles.

It was an excellent catch that got South Africa the big wicket of Axar Patel, who was promoted up the order at No. 3. He was sent to provide an impetus to this innings but he was unable to find his touch. The left-hander was finally put out of his misery as he was dismissed for a run-a-ball-21. He scored a four and a six during his knock.

Axar Patel batting has drastically improved over the last few years. He has matured into one of the best all-rounders in the world, especially in white-ball formats over the last few years. His batting was crucial in India winning the T20 World Cup 2024 final where he was pushed up to No. 5.

Afterwards, he has been batting regularly at No. 5 in the ODI set-up. Axar was trusted upon this responsibility even during the high pressure tournament like Champions Trophy 2025. He impressed with his temperament and played key role in India winning the title once again.

South Africa Level Series 1-1

Meanwhile, it wasn't a great day for the Men in Blue during the IND vs SA 2nd T20I. After winning the toss, they put South Africa into bat but conceded an above-par 213-4 in 20 overs. Quinton de Kock once again showed why he is still one of the best batsmen in the world with an excellent knock of 90 off 46 balls.

There were also some excellent contributions from Donovan Ferreira and David Miller down the order. India faltered in the run-chase as they could score just 162 runs in 20 overs. Tilak Varma top-scored for India with 62 off 34 balls but lacked support from the other end.