NEW DELHI: The health condition of the Indian all-rounder Axar Patel has forced him to be out of the final two T20I matches against South Africa. Shahbaz Ahmed has been selected as his replacement in the team.
The board of Cricket in India (BCCI) issued a statement confirming that Patel is physically with the team in Lucknow, the location, for the T20I. Additional medical tests will be performed to evaluate his health.
It is important to mention that Axar Patel was not part of the playing XI in the T20I match as well and fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah also sat out the third game due to personal reasons. Kuldeep Yadav and Harshit Rana were selected for the T20I squad in place of them.
India has a 2-1 lead in the five-match T20 series against South Africa after their 7-wicket win in the third game.
Four Indian Cricketers suspended over corruption charges
The Assam Cricket Association (ACA) has confirmed the suspension of four domestic cricketers due to suspected corruption in domestic cricket.
Indian media outlets have reported that the players face allegations of engaging in activities throughout the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy held from November 26, to December 8. The ACA made the suspensions public through a statement claiming that the players reportedly attempted to sway and manipulate existing team members.
The four players who have been banned are Amit Sinha, Ishan Ahmed, Aman Tripathi, and Abhishek Thakre.
Guwahati Crime Branch besides, has lodged an FIR against the players who have been suspended. Reports from media suggest that the four cricketers will be prohibited from engaging in any form of cricketing activities, at any level until the inquiry is finalized.
The ACA emphasized that strict action is being taken to maintain transparency and integrity in domestic cricket.
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