Axar Patel Supports Spiritual Tradition, Warns Impact Player Rule Harms All-Rounders
Axar Patel backs team temple visits and criticises IPL Impact Player rule for limiting all-rounder roles.
Delhi Capitals skipper Axar Patel opened up about the longstanding tradition of Indian cricket players visiting temples during tournaments, describing the practice as a positive and meaningful experience. Speaking at a press conference ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, Patel highlighted the significance of temple visits during major international events such as bilateral series and ICC tournaments.
During the T20 World Cup 2026, members of the Indian cricket team were seen visiting multiple temples before their matches. Following India’s title-winning campaign, captain Suryakumar Yadav, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman Jay Shah visited the Hanuman Temple in Ahmedabad, where they sought blessings while holding the championship trophy. Patel noted that these visits are often constrained by players’ schedules, but he sees them as worthwhile. “Temple visits are not a bad thing. We go to temples where otherwise we wouldn't be able to go. We have security with us during tournaments,” he said.
In addition to discussing the temple visits, Patel also addressed his views on the Impact Player rule in the IPL. Introduced in 2023, the rule allows teams to substitute any player in the playing XI with one of the five listed substitutes at any point in a match, a regulation set to continue at least until 2027. Several prominent Indian cricketers, including Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya, have previously criticized the rule for affecting the role and development of all-rounders.
Also Read: Anil Kumble Warns 'India Faces High Stakes in T20 World Cup Final'
Patel, who serves as India’s T20 vice-captain, expressed similar concerns. “I don't like this rule as I am an all-rounder myself,” he said, adding that the rule has shifted team selection strategies away from versatile players toward specialists. “Earlier we used to pick an all-rounder for this role (batting and bowling). Now team management goes with a particular batter or bowler. Being an all-rounder myself, I don't like it, but at the same time, rules are rules. We have to follow them.”
The skipper’s remarks underscore ongoing debates within Indian cricket circles about balancing strategic innovations with the traditional value of all-rounders in team composition. While the Impact Player rule offers tactical flexibility, critics argue it diminishes opportunities for players who contribute in multiple disciplines, potentially affecting team balance and player development over the long term.
As Delhi Capitals prepare for IPL 2026, Patel’s dual commentary on cultural traditions and cricketing regulations highlights both the team’s respect for heritage and the evolving challenges facing modern players. His candid insights may shape discussions among players, management, and fans as the league approaches its next season.
Also Read: Axar Patel Shares Emotional Family Moment After India’s Historic T20 World Cup 2026 Victory
