Ajaz Patel on Test Cricket: Limited Opportunities Intensify My Desire

Ajaz Patel, who is disappointed that he did not receive many opportunities to play Test cricket after his incredible 10-wicket haul, feels that such disappointments simply serve to increase the motivation and aspiration of New Zealand spinners to establish themselves on the subcontinent.

New Zealand spinners usually have a difficult time showcasing their abilities at home since the wickets and conditions are more favorable for seamers.

“It is challenging, according to every spinner in New Zealand. Before New Zealand’s one-off Test match against Afghanistan, which starts on September 9, Patel told media here on Friday that sometimes, obviously, you don’t get as many opportunities at home because of our home conditions.

“But it breeds more hunger when you do come to conditions like this and you know conditions that are spin-friendly and you’re quite hungry to get out there and play and put your best foot forward and perform. But it’s really important that you do prepare accordingly and prepare well,” he added.

The 35-year-old left-arm spinner, who was awarded a central contract earlier this year, was only the third bowler, after Jim Laker and Anil Kumble, to take all 10 Indian wickets in the first innings in the Mumbai Test in 2021.

Only five Test matches for New Zealand have he played since, four of them were on the subcontinent. However, Patel is aware of the cause of the limited opportunities.

Since we operate in a professional setting, it’s critical for us to continuously putting in the effort to raise our game, develop, and advance.

“Obviously, you’re a little let down after taking 10 wickets because you don’t have as many opportunities, but as a player, it’s still about developing your game and taking advantage of opportunities to grow and improve.

“After taking ten wickets, I’ve kind of changed the way I run the ball and am trying to improve.” Therefore, it’s constantly about putting your hand up, getting better, and making sure you’re prepared for the next opportunity.”

Now that he has a “great opportunity” to play six Tests, Patel is thrilled. Following their match against Afghanistan, New Zealand will play three Test matches against India and two Test matches against Sri Lanka.

“It always depends on conditions and I guess it depends on form and you know making sure you play well so you don’t take it lightly.

“However, having so many games in Asia is a terrific chance to then kind of have those opportunities as a spinner. Thus, I’m excited about it and looking forward to it,” he continued.

This one-off match will be the first-ever Test match between Afghanistan and New Zealand. In addition, Patel is visiting India for the first time since his 10-wicket performance.

“Returning to India is always special, especially in light of my most recent match here. This time, the obstacle is different due to the new surface, location, and opponents. Hence, all we need to do is observe what’s in front of us before determining how the wicket is acting and how it will play,” he stated.

Afghanistan hasn’t played many Test matches, but their leaps and bounds have improved in white-ball formats.

Despite their clear lack of experience, Afghanistan is a formidable team that will undoubtedly put up a strong fight. Thus, we will not be taking them lightly,” he continued.

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