Bangar: Batting at No. 3 Was Not Ideal for Axar Patel

December 12, 2025

NEW DELHI, Dec 12, 2025 — Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar said that promoting Axar Patel to bat at No. 3 in the second T20 International against South Africa was “not an ideal position” for the all‑rounder. India lost the match by 51 runs in the five‑match series, with the top order failing to fire as expected.

SKY is a No. 3 player, but he doesn’t even know where he’s supposed to bat.

Yesterday, Axar who usually plays at No. 5 or 6 was sent in at No. 3! Does that make any sense?

Only the openers know their roles, and the rest are being treated as “flexible.” pic.twitter.com/oYwGGPqy6k

— 𝐅𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬⁶³ (@LoyalSuryaFan) December 12, 2025

Experiment at No. 3 Didn’t Pay Off

In the second T20I, India surprised many by sending Axar  typically a middle‑order floater   to bat at number three. The strategy did not work as planned: Axar struggled to find rhythm, scoring a run‑a‑ball 21 before being dismissed by South African pacer Ottniel Baartman.

Bangar suggested that the move disrupted the batting balance, as India needed significant contributions from its regular top three   including Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav, and Abhishek Sharma   but they collectively failed to provide stability.

Top Order Struggles and Team Strategy

According to Bangar, the decision to promote Axar was linked to India’s quest for extending batting depth, but in this instance, it compromised the team’s chase. South Africa’s bowlers, especially Baartman and George Linde, capitalized on the opportunity with disciplined bowling and restricted India’s scoring.

Bangar also noted that with flexible batting orders becoming common, role clarity for players remains crucial   especially in high‑pressure run chases where top order contributions often determine the result.

Wider Reaction on the Experiment

The move drew reactions from cricket analysts and former players, with some critics arguing that Axar’s strengths suit lower middle‑order roles rather than the crucial No. 3 spot against quality pace bowling. Others highlighted that consistent top‑order performers are essential for big run pursuits