Kings XI Punjab lost a close match to Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League, at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, on Wednesday.
After Glenn Maxwell's 42-ball 68, Axar Patel brightened Kings XI's hopes, in a 165-run chase, with a 21-run cameo off seven balls. However, Andre Russell's tight last over meant the Kings fell short by seven runs.
The victory enabled the Knight Riders to reclaim the top spot in the points' table.
Axar was run-out by an alert Russell in the last over and things went downhill from there as Punjab lost three wickets and the match.
Despite the negative result, Axar believes the IPL is a great opportunity for Indian youngsters.
It was his all-round showing in IPL 2014 -- when playing for Kings XI Punjab he claimed 17 wickets at an economy rate of 6.13 -- that got him selected for the Bangladesh tour in June that year.
"IPL gives a very good opportunity to the youngsters and the Indian players. I also got picked for the Indian team for the first time after playing in the IPL.
"It's crucial for every youngster as nobody is seen properly in Ranji matches. But here your performances are noticed widely and you get an opportunity."
