Axar Patel Hits a Maiden List A Century in Vijay Hazare Trophy: A Landmark Moment

The Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025–26 witnessed a remarkable landmark in Indian domestic cricket when Axar Patel, the seasoned India all-rounder, smashed his maiden List A century for Gujarat. It was a moment that not only turned heads but also underscored Axar’s batting evolution in the one-day format.

In this article, we explore the significance of this achievement, how the innings unfolded, and what it means for Axar Patel’s career and the broader domestic season.

Why Axar Patel’s Century Matters

A First-Ever List A Century

For a player of Axar Patel’s calibre, his name is often associated with consistent performances with both bat and ball. Yet, until January 3, 2026, a triple-figure score in List A cricket had eluded him despite years of experience. In the Group D fixture between Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh, Axar finally broke that barrier by scoring 130 runs off 111 balls, complete with 10 fours and five sixes, marking his first List A century.

This innings was especially significant given his past pattern — he had previously recorded 12 half-centuries with a highest score of 98 not out before this knock. Reaching three figures was a milestone long anticipated by fans and cricket pundits alike.

Delivering When It Counts

Axar’s innings was more than just a personal milestone. Coming in when Gujarat was in trouble early, his knock anchored the innings and enabled his side to reach a competitive total of 318/9. The effort was vital in putting Gujarat in a position to challenge Andhra Pradesh on a crucial day of the Vijay Hazare Trophy.

Match Context: Gujarat vs Andhra Pradesh

Trouble Early, Calm Middle Overs

Gujarat had a shaky start in their match against Andhra Pradesh, losing early wickets and teetering at 99/5. That’s when Axar Patel stepped up. He first stabilised the innings and then shifted gears as the partnership built momentum.

Partnership Power

A crucial 142-run partnership with Vishal Jayswal for the sixth wicket turned the tide in Gujarat’s favour. Such partnerships are vital in one-day cricket, especially when early wickets fall and put pressure on the batting side. Axar’s ability to rotate strike, find boundaries, and absorb pressure was key to this recovery.

All-Round Contribution

Adding to his batting heroics, Axar also chipped in with the ball, bowling effectively in Andhra’s innings and finishing with respectable figures. This all-round effort is a fitting reminder of his value to any team he represents.

What This Means for Axar Patel’s Career

An All-Rounder in Peak Form

Axar Patel has been a central figure in Indian cricket for several years, known widely for his left-arm spin and handy contributions with the bat. However, this century elevates his batting credentials in List A cricket, adding a new chapter to his domestic legacy.

His career so far includes 71 ODIs for India, where he’s contributed crucial lower-order runs and provided consistency with his bowling. Now, this century gives him added confidence as he looks to cement his place as a genuine all-rounder in multiple formats.

Stepping Stone to International Opportunities

With India’s senior teams always on the lookout for reliable all-rounders, performances like this are difficult for selectors to ignore. The Vijay Hazare Trophy often acts as a proving ground for future national opportunities, and Axar’s monumental knock surely adds to his credentials ahead of upcoming series and tournaments.

Broader Impact in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025–26

Rising Standards in Domestic Cricket

The same Vijay Hazare season saw other notable performances, including Hardik Pandya also hitting his maiden List A century and others excelling with big scores. This underlines how competitive and high-quality this domestic edition has been.

Domestic Cricket as a Launchpad

The Vijay Hazare Trophy continues to be a vital platform for talents — both established names and up-and-coming players — to showcase their skills. For many cricketers, strong domestic performances translate into international recognition, making tournaments like this a cornerstone of Indian cricketing structure.

Axar Patel’s Playing Style and Strengths

Balanced All-Round Skillset

Axar Patel’s success isn’t an overnight story. Known for his technique, temperament, and gritty batting, this century reflects his growing maturity with the bat. Combined with his left-arm spin bowling, Axar brings balance to any side he plays for, whether at the state or international level.

Adaptability Under Pressure

One of Axar’s hallmarks is his ability to adapt. Whether stabilising an innings after early losses or building partnerships under duress, he showcases a blend of patience and aggression that’s essential in one-day cricket.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Axar Patel

Consistency in Performances

Now that Axar has crossed the three-figure mark, cricket fans will be watching to see how he builds on this achievement. A milestone like this can often unlock even greater consistency in batting contributions.

International Prospects

With the India vs New Zealand ODI series on the horizon and selectors monitoring domestic performances closely, Axar’s century could weigh positively in selection discussions. His all-round abilities make him a potential asset in multiple formats.

Conclusion

Axar Patel’s maiden List A century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy isn’t just a stat — it’s an affirmation of his evolution as a cricketer. From stabilising Gujarat’s innings to steering them toward a competitive total, his innings carried both technique and determination.

This remarkable performance adds depth to Axar’s cricketing story and reinforces why he remains one of Indian cricket’s most valued all-round talents. As fans, analysts, and selectors take note of this milestone, one thing is clear: the best chapters of Axar Patel’s cricketing journey are still unfolding.

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