Abu Dhabi, September 20(HS): Team India have been left sweating over the fitness of all-rounder Axar Patel ahead of their high-stakes Asia Cup Super Four clash against Pakistan, after the star spinner sustained a head injury during the encounter against Oman.

Patel, who attempted a diving catch in the 15th over of Oman’s chase on Friday, took a blow to his head upon hitting the ground, forcing him to walk off the field. While fielding coach T Dilip later assured that the 30-year-old appeared fine, concerns persist over his readiness with less than two days remaining before the marquee contest against arch-rivals Pakistan.

The Gujarat cricketer had made a quick impact with the bat earlier, scoring an unbeaten 26 off 13 balls, and his absence could unsettle India’s balance both in batting depth and spin options. Should Patel be unavailable, the side is expected to rely on Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy as the primary spinners, while a pacer may be drafted in to maintain team equilibrium.

India also have standby replacements in Riyan Parag and Washington Sundar, who may be called upon if the medical staff advises against Patel’s participation.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar