Ind Vs NZ 3rd Test: Who Is Ajaz Patel? New Zealand Cricketer Takes 5 Wicket Haul Against India On Day 2

Ajaz Patel, the New Zealand left-arm spinner, showcased his exceptional skills once again at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium. On Day 2 of the third Test against India, he achieved his second consecutive five-wicket haul at this venue. This marks the sixth time in his Test career that Patel has taken five wickets in an innings.

Patel's remarkable performance continued as he dismissed Ravichandran Ashwin during the second session. His success at Wankhede is notable, having previously made history by becoming only the third bowler to take all ten wickets in a Test innings against India here in 2021.

Ajaz Patel's Consistent Performance

Interestingly, all of Patel's five-wicket hauls have been outside New Zealand. He has achieved two each in Sri Lanka and India, and one each in the U.A.E and Bangladesh. In the first two Tests of this series, Patel played a supporting role with just four wickets.

However, returning to his birthplace seemed to inspire him. He began by dismissing Yashasvi Jaiswal late on Day 1 and then trapped Mohammed Siraj for a golden duck early on Day 2.

Challenges and Triumphs

The day didn't start well for Patel as Rishabh Pant attacked him aggressively in the first session. But after Pant's dismissal, Patel regained his rhythm. He claimed Sarfaraz Khan's wicket by making him edge to Tom Blundell for a four-ball duck.

Patel then went on to dismiss Shubman Gill, who was well-set on 90 runs, by getting him caught at slip. He also took Ashwin's wicket in a similar fashion to complete his five-wicket haul.

Impressive Figures and Future Prospects

Patel ended with impressive figures of 5/103 from 21.4 overs. His efforts helped New Zealand restrict India to 263 runs in their second innings, giving them a narrow lead of just 28 runs.

With these performances, Patel has now taken 19 wickets from three innings at Wankhede Stadium with an average of 17.26. He aims to maintain this form in the second innings and contribute to New Zealand's goal of achieving a historic series whitewash over India.