Ajaz Patel is a New Zealand cricketer who has made a significant impact in the international cricket world, particularly in the Test format as a left-arm orthodox spinner.
Early Life and Background:
- Full Name: Ajaz Yunus Patel
- Date of Birth: October 21, 1988
- Place of Birth: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
- Nationality: New Zealand (originally born in India)
- Family: His family moved from Mumbai to New Zealand when Ajaz was eight years old. His father worked as a refrigeration specialist in New Zealand.
Domestic Career:
Ajaz Patel initially played as a fast bowler during his early cricket days. However, he transitioned into a left-arm orthodox spinner after coaches advised him to switch due to his stature. This decision proved to be a turning point in his career.
- Domestic Team: Central Districts (in New Zealand’s domestic competition)
- Major Role: He has been a key figure in New Zealand’s domestic cricket, consistently performing well for Central Districts, especially in the Plunket Shield.
- Breakthrough: Ajaz was the highest wicket-taker in the 2017-18 Plunket Shield season, which led to his selection in the New Zealand national team.
International Career:
Ajaz Patel made his debut for New Zealand in international cricket in 2018.
- Test Debut: November 16, 2018, against Pakistan
- ODI Debut: January 10, 2022, against India
- T20I Debut: October 31, 2018, against Pakistan
Test Cricket:
Ajaz Patel has primarily been known for his performances in Test cricket. His ability to extract turn and bounce has made him a valuable player in the New Zealand bowling lineup.
- Memorable Performance: On December 4, 2021, Ajaz Patel became the third cricketer in the history of Test cricket to take all 10 wickets in an innings. This remarkable achievement came against India in the second Test at Mumbai, his birthplace. He joined Jim Laker and Anil Kumble as the only players to accomplish this feat.
- Figures: 10/119 in 47.5 overs.
One-Day Internationals (ODIs):
Ajaz Patel has had limited opportunities in ODIs, and he primarily focuses on his red-ball (Test) cricket career.
T20Is:
Patel has also represented New Zealand in T20 Internationals, but like ODIs, his impact has been more prominent in Test matches.
Bowling Style:
Ajaz Patel is known for his left-arm orthodox spin. He can flight the ball well, extract turn from the pitch, and his accuracy makes him a difficult bowler to face, especially on spin-friendly wickets.
Notable Achievements:
- 10 Wickets in an Innings: One of only three players in the history of Test cricket to take all 10 wickets in an innings.
- Domestic Success: Regularly among the top wicket-takers in New Zealand domestic cricket.
- Plunket Shield Performances: Consistently performed in New Zealand’s domestic first-class competition.
Personal Life:
- Wife: Ajaz Patel is married, though he tends to keep his personal life private.
- Background and Inspiration: Coming from an Indian background and having grown up in New Zealand, he represents the diversity and multicultural aspect of the sport. His journey from Mumbai to New Zealand, switching bowling styles, and reaching the top levels of cricket is an inspiring tale of perseverance and adaptation.
Playing Style Summary:
- Batting Style: Right-handed
- Bowling Style: Left-arm orthodox spin
- Role in Team: Bowler
Future Prospects:
Ajaz Patel continues to be a crucial member of the New Zealand Test squad, especially when they play in conditions that favor spin. His achievements and consistency in red-ball cricket have solidified his place as one of the key spinners for New Zealand.
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