Sat Nov 02 19:12:48 UTC 2024: ## New Zealand Spinner Ajaz Patel Makes Wankhede Stadium a Happy Hunting Ground Once Again
**Mumbai, India:** New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel continued his remarkable connection with the city of his birth, Mumbai, by claiming a five-wicket haul in the third Test match against India. This performance comes just three years after he made history at the Wankhede Stadium by becoming only the third bowler in cricket history to take all 10 wickets in a single innings.
Patel, who migrated to New Zealand at the age of eight, took 5/103 on Saturday, helping New Zealand restrict India to 263 runs in their first innings. The left-arm spinner, who had already claimed two wickets on Friday, was particularly impressive after lunch, taking three wickets for just 27 runs.
“Being back in Mumbai is always special,” said Patel, who described the city as a second home. “It’s quite special to have the opportunity to play here again.”
Despite his historic achievement in 2021, Patel’s career has not taken off as some might have expected. At 36, he is aware of the limited time he has left in his career and is determined to make the most of his opportunities.
This latest performance at the Wankhede Stadium is sure to bring renewed focus on Patel’s abilities. Whether he can sustain this form and secure a regular place in the New Zealand team remains to be seen.
First Piper 