Axar Patel and Mohammed Siraj let their emotions loose after India clinch T20 World Cup

When India wobbled early in the T20 World Cup final with Kohli stranded at the non-striker’s end for most of the time, Axar Patel’s arrival in the center calmed the frayed nerves. The lanky all-rounder showed why he was promoted higher up the order ahead of Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya. He scored 47 off just 31 balls, allowing India to stay afloat and eventually played a massive hand in India getting to 176/7 in 20 overs.

Patel also claimed the all-important scalp of Tristan Stubbs who played an instrumental role in steadying the South African chase after India’s early blows. Talking in a post-match interview, Axar said, “It means everything for me. When I came to this WC - the last few years I've been getting injured, not getting that performance.”

He further added, “I wanted to do something for India. Feeling proud. I tried to keep it simple. Just thought of it as another match. That worked for me. When I went to bat, I didn't think of what'll happen if I get out. Rohit is an amazing captain. He led India very well in this tournament.”

Axar continued, “Rahul [Dravid] bhai asked us to enjoy, not take pressure. I thought I'm going down the order. When we lost three wickets, Rahul bhai suddenly asked me to pad up. Didn't have time to think about batting and it helped me.”

He was joined by Mohammed Siraj shortly. Miyan left no stones unturned to express his emotions. He was in tears too at the end of what was a triumphant night for the Men in Blue.

Miyan said, “My only belief was on Jassi (Bumrah) bhai (To turn this game around). He's the only game-changer. Whatever I thought exactly happened. Unbelievable feeling guys, can't explain. Last World Cup we lost the final. Every professional cricketer wants to win the World Cup final. I'm grateful I'm here and thankful. (Siraj was emotional throughout the interview).”