‘A delight to watch’ – Richard Hadlee lauds Ajaz Patel for joining elite list in Mumbai Test against India

Former New Zealand cricketer Richard Hadlee has heaped praises on Ajaz Patel, who became only the third bowler after Jim Laker and Anil Kumble to pick up 10 wickets in a Test innings. Patel accomplished the feat during the Black Caps’ second Test against India at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Patel, born in Mumbai, oozed class as the Indian batters didn’t have much clue in facing him. The left-arm spinner finished with bowling figures of 47.5-12-119-10. Subsequently, he conjured praises from a number of cricketers, including Hadlee, who himself was one of the best of his generation.

Hadlee lauds Ajaz Patel

“Congratulations to Ajaz on a superb bowling performance. It was a delight to watch; a well-deserved reward, and a great moment for him, New Zealand cricket, and world cricket. To be in the great company of Jim Laker and Anil Kumble is very special indeed. Good luck to him and the team in the second innings,” Hadlee said in an official statement released by New Zealand Cricket (NZC).

On the back of his spell, the Kiwis bowled the home team out for 325 in their first innings. William Somerville and Rachin Ravindra, Patel’s spin-bowling partners, couldn’t make a single breakthrough in the 23 overs they bowled.

“Honestly, it’s surreal and to be able to do that in my career is pretty special. The stars have aligned for me to do it in Mumbai,” Patel was quoted as saying after he achieved the feat. Patel’s bowling figure is the best by any bowler on Indian soil.

He was also overjoyed after joining Kumble, who achieved the feat against Pakistan, in the elite list. “Quite a special occasion for me and not just me but my family. Unfortunately for me, they’re not here because of COVID. I’m in very illustrious company with Kumble sir as well,” he added.

Patel also mentioned that all the 10 wickets he picked up were special. “Not anyone in particular and just trying to be repetitive and ask questions of batters. Indian spinner Ravi Ashwin, who’s also a part of the Mumbai Test, lauded Patel for the stupendous spell of bowling.