Ajaz Yunus Patel, a talented New Zealand cricketer, has made a significant mark in the world of international cricket with his exceptional left-arm orthodox spin bowling. Originally from Mumbai, India, Patel moved to New Zealand as a child and later became one of the top bowlers representing his adopted nation. In 2021, he made headlines worldwide by achieving one of cricket’s rarest feats: taking all 10 wickets in a Test innings against India. His journey from a young boy in Mumbai to one of New Zealand’s key players is a story of dedication, skill, and perseverance.
As of 2024, Ajaz Patel continues to be a central figure in New Zealand’s cricket team, known for his accuracy and ability to shine in the longest format of the game. Beyond the cricket field, Patel is also a dedicated family man, balancing his career with life as a husband and father.
Summary of Ajaz Patel’s Key Life Events
| Key Life Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ajaz Yunus Patel |
| Born | October 21, 1988, Mumbai, India |
| Moved to New Zealand | At age 8 |
| International Debut | October 2018 |
| Notable Achievement | 10 wickets in an innings against India (2021) |
| Domestic Team | Central Districts, New Zealand |
| Marital Status | Married to Nilofer Patel |
| Family | One daughter |
Key Takeaways
- Ajaz Patel was born in Mumbai, India, on October 21, 1988, and moved to New Zealand at the age of eight.
- He is a left-arm orthodox spin bowler known for his significant contributions to New Zealand cricket, particularly in Test matches.
- Patel became the third bowler in Test history to take all 10 wickets in an innings, a feat he achieved against India in December 2021.
- Ajaz Patel’s journey from Mumbai to New Zealand and his transition from a fast bowler to a spin bowler have shaped his career success.
- He is married to Nilofer Patel, and they have one daughter.
Ajaz Patel Biography
Ajaz Yunus Patel was born on October 21, 1988, in Mumbai, India. His family relocated to New Zealand when he was just eight years old, which marked the beginning of his cricketing journey in a new country. Patel’s early days in cricket were quite different from what he is known for today. Initially a fast bowler, Patel switched to spin bowling as he grew older and found his true calling. His dedication to mastering left-arm orthodox spin soon paid off, and he rose through the ranks in New Zealand’s domestic cricket scene.
In October 2018, Patel made his international debut for New Zealand, a moment that confirmed his status as one of the nation’s top cricket talents. He quickly established himself as a formidable spinner, especially in Test matches, where his precision and ability to extract turn made him a key asset to the team.
Ajaz Patel vs India – A Historic Achievement
Ajaz Patel’s most notable achievement came in December 2021, during a Test match against India in Mumbai. Patel created history by becoming only the third bowler in the history of Test cricket to take all 10 wickets in a single innings. His remarkable figures of 10/119 in India’s first innings stunned the cricketing world, placing him alongside legendary cricketers like Jim Laker and Anil Kumble, who had previously achieved this rare feat.
This performance not only cemented Patel’s place in cricket history but also highlighted his ability to excel under challenging conditions, particularly in the subcontinent, where spin bowling often plays a crucial role.
Ajaz Patel and New Zealand Cricket
Ajaz Patel has been a consistent performer for New Zealand since his debut. He has played for several domestic teams, including Central Districts, where he made significant contributions to their bowling attack. Patel was named the Men’s Domestic Player of the Year at the New Zealand Cricket Awards in 2018, a recognition of his hard work and skill.
As of 2024, Patel continues to play a vital role in New Zealand’s Test team, especially on pitches that offer assistance to spinners. His journey from being a fast bowler in his youth to becoming one of New Zealand’s leading spin bowlers is a testament to his adaptability and commitment to his craft.
Ajaz Patel Family
Ajaz Patel’s family has been a source of support throughout his career. His father, Yunus Patel, is a businessman, and his mother, Shahnaz Patel, is a schoolteacher. Patel also has two sisters, Tanzeel and Sana, who have been part of his journey. His wife, Nilofer Patel, has been a constant presence in his life, and together they have one daughter.
Despite the demands of his international cricket career, Patel values his time with his family and often speaks about the importance of balancing his professional and personal life.
FAQs
When was Ajaz Patel born?
Ajaz Patel was born on October 21, 1988, in Mumbai, India.
When did Ajaz Patel make his international debut?
Ajaz Patel made his international debut for New Zealand in October 2018.
What is Ajaz Patel known for in cricket?
Ajaz Patel is best known for his left-arm orthodox spin bowling and for taking all 10 wickets in an innings against India in December 2021.
What is Ajaz Patel’s family background?
Ajaz Patel’s family includes his father Yunus Patel, his mother Shahnaz Patel, and two sisters, Tanzeel and Sana. He is married to Nilofer Patel, and they have one daughter.
What teams does Ajaz Patel play for in domestic cricket?
Ajaz Patel plays for Central Districts in New Zealand domestic cricket.
How did Ajaz Patel become a spin bowler?
Initially a fast bowler in his early years, Patel transitioned to spin bowling as he grew older and found greater success with his left-arm orthodox style.
What is Ajaz Patel’s biggest achievement in cricket?
Ajaz Patel’s biggest achievement is taking all 10 wickets in a Test innings against India in December 2021, becoming only the third bowler in history to do so.