Cricket

In the recently concluded Test series against New Zealand, India's performance was largely underwhelming. However, wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant emerged as a beacon of hope, showcasing his fearless batting style. Despite the Indian team's struggles, Pant's solo efforts kept India in contention for a consolation win in the third and final Test at the Wankhede stadium.Pant's valiant performance did not go unnoticed, earning him praise from both Indian and New Zealand cricketing circles. In an exclusive interview with NDTV, New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel acknowledged the fear that Pant instilled in the opposition. "When Rishabh Pant is in the crease, everyone is scared," Patel stated.Patel revealed that the New Zealand team had specifically targeted Pant, recognizing his ability to play fearlessly and dictate the game. "He doesn't fear when in the middle. He plays his game, no matter what. His philosophy is till the time you are on the crease, you do what you want to, if you get out, no problem," Patel said.Patel also commented on India's upcoming tour of Australia, where the two teams will face off in a five-match Test series. He emphasized the importance of self-belief and a positive mindset for India to succeed Down Under. "Conditions in Australia would be different. If you take this series into Australia, there would not be any benefit. You need to start with a new mindset. You have the some of the best players, some of whom have even played in Australia. There would be pressure but wins and losses are part of the game," Patel said."The important thing is to keep the trust and belief alive. You need to learn to focus on what's next in line and move on from what has happened," he added.

The India vs New Zealand Test series concluded with a resounding 3-0 sweep in favor of the visitors, largely due to the exceptional bowling performance of Ajaz Patel. The Kiwi spinner emerged as the leading wicket-taker of the series, claiming an astonishing 15 wickets in three matches, including a remarkable 11-wicket haul at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.Despite Patel's impressive tally, former India batter Mohammad Kaif has dismissed the spinner's quality, claiming that India has bowlers of his caliber in every club. Kaif criticized the Indian team for allowing Patel to take so many wickets, attributing it to poor batting rather than exceptional bowling."Ajaz Patel didn't bowl well," Kaif said in a social media video. "If you look at his pitch map, he bowled two full-tosses, two short balls, and two length deliveries but still managed to take wickets."Kaif also ridiculed New Zealand's part-time spinner Glenn Phillips, who claimed four wickets in the Mumbai Test. "Glenn Phillips is a part-timer and he doesn't know how to bowl good deliveries," Kaif said. "We lost to part-timers and not to quality spinners."The only New Zealand spinner who earned Kaif's praise was Mitchell Santner, who took 11 wickets in the Pune Test before being ruled out of the final match due to injury. "Santner did bowl well," Kaif said. "The bowling he produced in Pune was a classic Test match performance."Kaif's comments have sparked debate among cricket fans and experts. Some have questioned his assessment of Patel's bowling, while others have agreed with his criticism of the Indian batting. Regardless of the differing opinions, Patel's performance in the series has undoubtedly been a major factor in New Zealand's dominant victory.

Ajaz Patel, New Zealand's premier spinner, has rediscovered his form in the ongoing Test series against India. After a disappointing start to the series, Patel has emerged as a key figure for the Black Caps, claiming 5/103 in the first innings of the third Test in Mumbai.Patel's performance in Mumbai was a reminder of his heroics at the same venue in 2021, where he became only the third bowler in Test history to take all 10 wickets in an innings. His latest five-wicket haul has helped New Zealand restrict India to a manageable total of 263, giving them a glimmer of hope in the series.Patel's resurgence has been a welcome boost for New Zealand, who have struggled to contain India's batting lineup in the first two Tests. The left-arm spinner has credited his improved performance to a change in mindset and a renewed focus on his strengths."I've been working hard on my game and trying to stay positive," Patel said after the day's play. "I knew that if I kept putting in the effort, the wickets would eventually come."Patel's performance has also been praised by his teammates, who have hailed his resilience and determination."Ajaz is a world-class spinner," said New Zealand captain Tim Southee. "He's shown great character to bounce back from a tough start to the series. His wickets today were crucial for us."With the series still in the balance, Patel will be looking to continue his good form in the remaining two Tests. If he can maintain his current level of performance, he could play a pivotal role in helping New Zealand salvage a draw or even an unlikely victory.

Left-Arm Spinners Dominate India-New Zealand Test SeriesLeft-arm finger spin has emerged as a dominant force in the ongoing India-New Zealand Test series, with four left-arm spinners featuring in the first Test in Bengaluru. Ravindra Jadeja, Ajaz Patel, Rachin Ravindra, and Kuldeep Yadav all played significant roles, highlighting the effectiveness of this bowling style against right-handed batters.Left-arm finger spinners possess the ability to bowl attacking lines around the wicket, bringing LBW into play. They can also employ negative tactics by bowling over the wicket and outside leg-stump, as seen in the famous examples of Ashley Giles against Sachin Tendulkar and Nilesh Kulkarni against Delhi.This advantage has made Ravindra Jadeja India's first-choice Test spinner, due to his smartness, fielding, and batting contributions. In the first Test, none of the four left-arm spinners were economical, indicating the challenging conditions for spinners.Despite having another left-arm spinner in Axar Patel, India has added off-spinner Washington Sundar to their squad for the second Test in Pune. This move is aimed at countering the four left-handers in the New Zealand team, as off-spinners can take the ball away from them.New Zealand may also consider playing Mitchell Santner in Pune, given the expected spin-friendly conditions. Indian batsmen have historically struggled against unfancied left-arm spin at home, making the role of left-arm spinners crucial in this series.

New Zealand's left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel is determined to make a significant impact in the upcoming three-Test series against India, starting on October 16 in Bengaluru. Patel, who was born in Mumbai and has family ties to the city, recently trained at the MIG Cricket Club to prepare for the series.Patel, 35, has a remarkable connection to Mumbai. In December 2021, he became only the third bowler in Test history to achieve a "perfect 10," taking 10 wickets for 119 runs in India's first innings at the Wankhede Stadium.Ahead of the India tour, Patel reached out to Datta Mithbavkar, the local manager of the Afghanistan team during the washed-out Test against New Zealand in Greater Noida. Patel requested a training facility in Mumbai, where he could practice on a spin-friendly wicket.With the help of Nilesh Bhosle, an Apex Council member of the Mumbai Cricket Association, Patel secured a practice session at the MIG Club. He bowled for approximately 90 minutes, facing former India U-19 allrounder Vaibhav Ankolekar. Patel was impressed with Ankolekar's batting and shared valuable bowling tips with him.Patel also interacted with young local players, including left-arm spinners from Mithbavkar's academy, providing them with guidance and advice.Patel's determination to excel in the India series is evident in his meticulous preparation. He is eager to make a mark on the Indian pitches and contribute to New Zealand's success.

New Zealand's recent Test series loss to Sri Lanka may have been a disappointing outcome, but a closer examination reveals a more nuanced picture. In the first Test, the Kiwis pushed Sri Lanka to the brink, falling short by just 68 runs in the chase. They also had the hosts on the ropes on several occasions, but were unable to capitalize.Captain Tim Southee acknowledged that the team had its moments, particularly in the first innings of the first Test. "If we were able to push on there and gain a bit more of a lead, things may have been different in the series," he said.Losing the toss in the second Test proved to be a significant disadvantage for New Zealand. The team missed multiple catches and a stumping chance on the opening day, which Southee admitted was uncharacteristic. "It's something that us as a Kiwi side, we pride ourselves on, so we'll be looking to improve in that area as well," he said.Despite the setbacks, the series provided valuable experience for New Zealand's bowlers and batters. Ajaz Patel, Mitchell Santner, and Glenn Phillips bowled over 100 overs in the second Test alone, which Southee believes will be invaluable in the upcoming tour of India."I think just getting those overs into the spinners [was important]," Southee said. "They will all learn from that and we will hopefully do well in India."As for the batters, their response to the horror morning session on day three of the second Test offered a more accurate reflection of their potential. Despite the margin of defeat, New Zealand notched up their highest score in Galle - 360 - at an impressive run rate of 4.40 per over."The second innings was much more the way we want to play," Southee said. "The guys were quite positive and played in a more positive manner. It was a big shift from the first innings.""I think it was a much clearer way for the guys to play. They they went out and they played their shots. I don't think it was reckless at any stage... It was about picking the right moments to attack and right moments to defend."While the series loss is a setback, the experiences gained in Galle will undoubtedly benefit New Zealand in the future. The team will look to build on the positives and improve in the areas where they fell short.

Ajaz Patel, New Zealand's enigmatic spinner, has carved a unique niche as an "Asia specialist," excelling in the subcontinent despite limited opportunities at home. With 70 Test wickets at an impressive average of 28.50, Patel has played in only 17 of the 45 Tests New Zealand has contested since his debut.New Zealand's preference for seam-bowling at home has restricted Patel's chances, as they often opt for spinners who offer more with the bat. However, in Asia, Patel has flourished, playing over 70% of his Tests on the continent.Sri Lanka has been a particularly fruitful hunting ground for Patel, where he has claimed two five-wicket hauls, including a recent 6 for 90 in Galle. Only Richard Hadlee has taken more than one five-wicket haul on the island for New Zealand.Despite his impressive record, Patel admits to some frustration at his limited opportunities. However, he remains driven by a hunger to prove himself. "Every time you do get an opportunity, you're pretty hungry," he said.Patel's success in Asia stems from his ability to exploit the conditions. "As a spinner, you have the luxury of the ball doing a little more in these conditions," he explained. "It can be challenging as well, because you're up against good players of spin."Control is crucial for Patel, but he also adapts to the unique conditions at each venue. At Galle, he utilized the breeze to his advantage, hanging the ball up and letting the wind bring it down.Patel has also benefited from the guidance of Rangana Herath, Sri Lanka's spin consultant. Herath, who has taken 102 Test wickets at Galle, has shared his knowledge and insights with Patel."It's awesome having Rangana in our side," Patel said. "He's someone I grew up watching bowl. He's helped me tackle different angles, different fields, and different mindsets."Patel's success in Asia highlights his adaptability and skill as a spinner. Despite limited opportunities at home, he has carved a unique niche for himself as New Zealand's "Asia specialist."

New Zealand's bowlers dominated the morning session on day four of the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle, setting the visitors a target of 275 to win. Ajaz Patel starred with a five-wicket haul, while William O'Rourke chipped in with three wickets.Sri Lanka resumed on 233 for 4, with Angelo Mathews and Dhananjaya de Silva looking to build a solid partnership. However, Ajaz struck early, having de Silva stumped for 30. Kusal Mendis joined Mathews at the crease, and the pair put on a quick-fire 36-run stand.But the introduction of the second new ball proved decisive. Mendis was dismissed for 22, shouldering arms to an Ajaz delivery that deflected onto his stumps. Mathews reached his half-century but was soon dismissed for 50, edging an attempted forward defense to first slip.Ajaz continued to wreak havoc, trapping Ramesh Mendis in front for 14 and then getting Lahiru Kumara caught at mid-off for 1. Prabath Jayasuriya offered some resistance with a couple of boundaries, but Mitchell Santner ended his cameo with a caught-and-bowled dismissal.New Zealand lost the wicket of Devon Conway before lunch, but Tom Latham and Kane Williamson saw them through to the break without further damage. The visitors need 262 runs to win with two sessions remaining on day four.

Ajaz Patel, New Zealand's left-arm spinner, has faced a unique career trajectory. Despite his historic 10-wicket haul in India in 2021, he has struggled to become a regular in the team's playing XI. However, he remains optimistic and is eager to make the most of his opportunities.Patel understands the challenges of being a spinner in a team known for its fast bowlers. He also acknowledges the team's preference for different combinations and conditions. Nevertheless, he admits to some disappointment at not playing more often outside of Asia."It's difficult for all New Zealand spinners," Patel said. "But it breeds more hunger when you come to conditions like this, and you know conditions that are spin-friendly."Despite the limited opportunities, Patel has remained focused on improving his game. He has remodeled his run-up and is constantly seeking ways to develop. He believes that his recent performances have earned him a chance to play more regularly."After the ten wickets, obviously, you're a little bit disappointed because you don't get as many opportunities," Patel said. "But it's still about growing your game and it's an opportunity to develop and grow."Patel is now set to play six Tests in Asia over the next two months. This is a significant opportunity for him to establish himself as a key member of the team. He is excited about the prospect and is eager to learn from Sri Lanka's former ace spinner Rangana Herath, who has joined the New Zealand team on a short-term basis."If you look at me and you look at Rangana, we're pretty similar in terms of our build and body types," Patel said. "So really, really special to have him here and for me, it's a great opportunity to spend some time with him and really understand how he crafted spin bowling."Patel's journey has been a testament to his resilience and determination. Despite the challenges, he has remained focused on his goals and is now on the cusp of a major breakthrough.