Jadeja backs Harshal Patel to do well in T20I World Cup

image-l8d95y8dHarshal Patel in action for India (PC: Twitter)

Team India failed to defend 208 against Australia in the first T20I as the visitors took home a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Harshal Patel marked his return to the national side through the match after missing the entirety of the 2022 Asia Cup.

Playing his first T20 international since July, the speedster conceded 49 runs off his four wicketless overs. With T20I World Cup just a month away, several questions have been raised regarding the cricketer’s form ahead of the tournament.

Ajay Jadeja backs Harshal Patel, says bowler has “special ability”

Former Indian batsman Ajay Jadeja has claimed that the ‘Men in Blue’ are in a better position for the T20I World Cup, despite facing some issues with their bowling in the death overs. The cricketer-turned-commentator is of the opinion that India playing several matches before the tournament is a good sign for the team, and it will give them time to identify their problems.

Jadeja also came out in support of Harshal Patel despite his expensive spell against Australia in Mohali. The 51-year-old praised the speedster’s ability of bowling slower balls and handling his pace at the same time. While speaking with Cricbuzz, he said:

“With your seamers, we have definitely got better because now we have specific skills out there. I am not a great fan of 'katori' bowling but I'll tell you something, Harshal Patel is one bowler who has got me to change the way I look at the game. He has got a special ability with that (slower balls) and some pace as well. From that point of view, very good.”

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