Akshar, the boy with precision

AHMEDABAD: He is just 20 and when you get to play for India, people will surely sit up and take notice. Kings XI Punjab's coach Sanjay Bangar knew what a utility player Nadiad-based cricketer Akshar Patel is. He was warming the bench at Mumbai Indians the whole 2013 and came out blazing when he was picked up for Rs 75 lakhs by the Kings.
Akshar was impressive in the 2013-14 Ranji season, finishing the season with 369 runs at an average of 46.12 and 29 wickets at 23.58.The figures were enough for Preity Zinta co-owned Kings XI Punjab to bid for the youngster. In the ensuing IPL-7, Akshar has 16 wickets to his credit and 60 runs.
Just before the IPL was about to kick-off, the youngster was seen at the Motera Stadium with his few friends and was more than happy to pose for fans. Little did he know what future held for him.
He is known as a simple man in his friend circle who is a bit uncomfortable speaking in English.
Even his father Rajesh Patel was candid in declaring "Lottery lagi gayi (It's a jackpot)" upon his son's inclusion in the Indian team for Bangladesh tour.
One of Akshar's coaches once said: "Even if you wake up Akshar at middle of the night, he will start bowling perfect line and length immediately. That comes with only hard work. That's precision."