50 Facts About Ajaz Patel

Early Life and Migration

Ajaz Patel's journey from Mumbai to New Zealand is a story of adaptation and perseverance. Let's dive into the early years of this remarkable cricketer.

1. Ajaz Yunus Patel was born on October 21, 1988, in Mumbai, India.
2. At the age of eight, Patel moved to New Zealand with his family, marking the beginning of his cricketing journey in a new land.
3. Initially, Patel started his cricketing career as a fast bowler.
4. Realizing his height of 5’6″ was better suited for spin bowling, he transitioned to spin in his twenties.

Domestic Cricket Success

Patel's domestic cricket career laid the foundation for his international success. His performances in New Zealand's domestic leagues were nothing short of spectacular.

5. Patel has played for teams like Central Districts and Auckland in domestic cricket.
6. In 2018, he was named New Zealand’s Men’s Domestic Player of the Year.
7. Patel was the highest wicket-taker in first-class cricket for three consecutive years before his international call-up.
8. He played a crucial role in Central Stags winning the title in 2018, taking 48 wickets at an average of 21.52.

International Debut and Achievements

Ajaz Patel's international career began with a bang, and he quickly became a key player for New Zealand.

9. Patel made his international debut for New Zealand in October 2018 during a T20I against Pakistan.
10. He transitioned to Test cricket, debuting on November 16, 2018, where he took five wickets in a thrilling match that New Zealand won by just four runs.
11. On December 3, 2021, Patel took all ten wickets in an innings against India at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, his birthplace.
12. This feat made him only the third bowler in Test cricket history to take all ten wickets in an innings, joining legends Jim Laker and Anil Kumble.

Bowling Style and Techniques

Patel's unique bowling style and techniques have made him a formidable opponent on the field.

13. Ajaz Patel is a left-arm orthodox spinner, known for his ability to extract turn from the pitch.
14. His run-up and bowling action were developed under the guidance of his coach, Dipak Patel.
15. Patel's experience in club cricket helped him develop consistency in his bowling.
16. He is often seen as a “sub-continent specialist,” delivering his best performances on spin-friendly pitches typical of that region.

Career Statistics

Patel's career statistics reflect his prowess and consistency as a bowler.

17. In Test matches, Patel has played 18 matches, bowled 4119 balls, and taken 70 wickets with an average of 30.42.
18. In T20Is, he has played 7 matches, bowled 156 balls, and taken 11 wickets with an average of 10.72.
19. In first-class cricket, Patel has played 104 matches, bowled 23778 balls, and taken 372 wickets with an average of 33.28.
20. In List A cricket, he has played 44 matches, bowled 2170 balls, and taken 49 wickets with an average of 38.46.

Batting and Fielding Contributions

While primarily known for his bowling, Patel has also made contributions with the bat and in the field.

21. In Test matches, Patel has scored 165 runs with a highest score of 35 and a batting average of 11.78.
22. In T20Is, he has scored 7 runs with a highest score of 4 and a batting average of 3.50.
23. In first-class cricket, Patel has scored 1717 runs with a highest score of 52 and a batting average of 15.06.
24. In List A cricket, he has scored 213 runs with a highest score of 45 and a batting average of 11.83.
25. Patel has taken 7 catches in Test matches, showcasing his fielding abilities.

Personal Life and Family Support

Ajaz Patel's personal life and family have played a significant role in his cricketing journey.

26. Patel is married and has been open about the support he receives from his family.
27. His father’s words of encouragement during tough times were instrumental in his transformation to a spinner.
28. Despite facing academic pressure from his parents, Patel balanced his cricketing career with education.
29. His grandmother still watches IPL matches and prays for him to succeed in cricket.

Challenges and Overcoming Adversity

Patel's journey has not been without challenges, but his perseverance has seen him through.

30. Patel has never faced racial discrimination in the selection process.
31. He credits his coach, Dipak Patel, for helping him transition from a fast bowler to a spinner.
32. The experience of playing club cricket helped Patel develop consistency in his bowling.
33. Despite the pressure of playing for New Zealand, Patel does not feel overwhelmed.
34. He believes that reaching the finals of the World Cup is a significant achievement for the team.

Future Goals and Legacy

Ajaz Patel's future goals and legacy continue to inspire young cricketers around the world.

35. Patel hopes that the coin will start flipping in New Zealand's favor, leading to more wins in international cricket.
36. He is optimistic about the team's future prospects.
37. Patel’s ten-wicket haul remains a historic achievement and serves as an inspiration to cricketers worldwide.
38. His performance was widely recognized, and he won several accolades for it.
39. Patel's transformation from a fast bowler to a spinner was not easy, but it ultimately led him to where he is today.
40. Dipak Patel’s influence extended beyond just helping him with his action; he also provided emotional support during difficult times.

Recent Matches and Performances

Patel's recent performances continue to showcase his talent and dedication to the sport.

41. In a Test match against Sri Lanka on September 26, 2024, Patel scored 8 and 22 runs and took 0/135 and 2/60 in the two innings.
42. In a first-class match for Central D against Otago on March 24, 2024, Patel scored 51 runs and took 0/44 and 1/70 in the two innings.

Debut and Last Matches

Patel's debut and last matches highlight his journey and contributions to cricket.

43. Patel made his Test debut on November 16, 2018, against Pakistan.
44. His last Test match was on September 26, 2024, against Sri Lanka.
45. Patel made his T20I debut on October 31, 2018, against Pakistan.
46. His last T20I match was on September 18, 2024, against Sri Lanka.

Role Models and Inspirations

Patel's role models and inspirations have shaped his cricketing career.

47. Patel has been inspired by cricketers like Ishant Sharma and Amit Mishra, whom he met during his early days in New Zealand.
48. These interactions humbled him and motivated him to work harder.
49. Patel believes that sport has the power to glue differences and encourage diversity.
50. He feels that politics is a different game, but sport has a unique ability to bring people together.

Ajaz Patel's Remarkable Cricket Journey

Ajaz Patel's story is one of grit, adaptability, and sheer determination. From his early days in Mumbai to becoming a key player for New Zealand, Patel's journey is inspiring. His switch from fast bowling to spin, guided by coach Dipak Patel, was a game-changer. Achieving the rare feat of taking all ten wickets in an innings against India at the Wankhede Stadium cemented his place in cricket history. Patel's success in domestic cricket, particularly with Central Districts, showcases his consistent performance. Despite facing academic pressures and the challenges of migration, his family's unwavering support played a crucial role in his career. Ajaz Patel's legacy extends beyond his on-field achievements, inspiring young cricketers worldwide. His story reminds us that with hard work and perseverance, extraordinary feats are possible.