"In Retrospect: Ryan ten Doeschate Admits Error in Benching Axar Patel during T20 World Cup Super 8 Match Against South Africa"

India's Decision to Bench Axar Patel Backfires as South Africa Secures Big Win

India faced a setback in their crucial Super 8 match against South Africa as their decision to leave out vice-captain Axar Patel proved costly. The match, held in Ahmedabad on Sunday, saw India suffer a massive 76-run defeat, marking their worst loss by runs in the T20 World Cups.

In a surprising move, India skipper Suryakumar Yadav stuck with the same team that played against the Netherlands, opting to field Washington Sundar over Patel in a tactical decision. However, this decision backfired as Sundar had an ordinary game, contributing just 11 runs with the bat and going wicketless in his two overs.

India's assistant coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, admitted that leaving Patel out seemed like the wrong decision in hindsight. Reflecting on the match, he mentioned, "Hindsight, it looked like the wrong decision. Take nothing away from Axar. Very disappointed. We are allowed one mess-up. Guys can produce a turnaround. Two big games coming up."

South Africa's David Miller shone with a stroke-filled fifty, supported by Dewald Brevis, as they posted a challenging total of 187 for 7. In response, India faltered against a disciplined South African bowling attack, ultimately getting bowled out for 111 in 18.5 overs.

Marco Jansen claimed 4 wickets for South Africa, while Keshav Maharaj and Corbin Bosch also made crucial breakthroughs to secure a convincing victory. The defeat leaves India with a tough road ahead in the tournament.

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