Born on January 20, 1994, in Anand, Gujarat, Axar Rajeshbhai Patel, widely known as Akshar Patel, has carved a niche for himself in international cricket as a formidable all-rounder. His nicknames "Akku" and "Bapu" reflect his friendly and approachable persona. He pursued higher education at Dharmsinh Desai University, located in Nadiad, Gujarat, which has been a foundational step in his cricketing career as well as personal development.
Axar's professional journey began with the Mumbai Indians in 2013, although he didn't play any matches. His breakthrough came after being signed by Kings XI Punjab in 2014. Here, Axar left a significant mark by securing 17 wickets in his debut season, highlighting his potential in competitive cricket. Over the years, he has been an integral part of the Delhi Capitals team, where his all-round performance has been crucial in many matches. Notably, his hat-trick against the Gujarat Lions in 2016 IPL season is a testament to his capability to turn games around.
Axar's international debut was against Bangladesh in an ODI match on June 15, 2014. His T20 International debut came the following year against Zimbabwe on July 17, 2015. The pinnacle of his international career was his Test debut against England on February 13, 2021, where he claimed a five-wicket haul, making him the ninth Indian to achieve such a feat on Test debut. His performances have been consistent, leading to regular selections for major tournaments like the ICC Men's T20 World Cup.
In recognition of his early promise, Axar was named the BCCI Under-19 Cricketer of the Year for the 2012/13 season. His impact was further acknowledged when he received the Emerging Player of the Tournament award in the 2014 IPL. These accolades reflect his growth and consistency as a player capable of performing under pressure, whether in domestic leagues or international matches.
On January 26, 2023, Axar tied the knot with Meha Patel in a ceremony held in Vadodara, Gujarat. Off the field, Axar is known for his composed and grounded nature. He enjoys a private life, preferring to spend quality time with his family in their luxurious residence in Nadiad, Gujarat. His interests outside cricket include engaging in community services and staying active on social media where he connects with fans and shares glimpses of his personal life.
Axar Patel remains an invaluable asset for the Indian cricket team and his IPL teams due to his dual capabilities as a bowler and a batsman. His transition from a potential engineer to a cricketing sensation is an inspiring journey for many aspiring athletes.
Axar's commitment to improving his game and his performances in critical situations highlight his potential to be a mainstay in the Indian cricket landscape for years to come. His story is not just about cricket but is also a lesson in perseverance and dedication, making him a role model for young cricketers worldwide.