Mumbai: Akshar Patel on Monday insisted he was a batsman who could bowl.

Patel played a blistering knock of 64 not out against South Zone to pilot West Zone into the Deodhar Trophy final.

“People have been telling me you are a bowling all-rounder and cannot bat. I entered the game as a batsman. I concentrated more on my bowling when I went to the NCA in 2011-12. I have always said that I can bat and I have proved it often on the field,” said the youngster.

“I started my career as an opening batsman. In NCA (2011-12 under-19 camp) I was told by (coaches) V. Venkatram and Dinesh Nanavati that I will be in the bowling group. Now it has become an advantage,” he explained.

“It (Monday’s innings) was important and it will show that I can bat as well. The knock says it all,” he added.