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NEW DELHI: New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel described New Zealand’s 3-0 series win in India on Sunday as more special than his individual performance three years ago. Patel took 5-103 in the first innings and 6-57 in the second innings of the third Test. This victory made New Zealand the first team to defeat India in a three-match home Test series.
Patel reflected on his 10-wicket feat in an innings during the 2021 Test at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Despite his performance, New Zealand had lost that match heavily.
He stated, “It’s certainly sweeter. I can say that for sure. Coming here last time and having that achievement, but at the same time getting a hiding, didn’t make it feel that special. This time around, bowling the team to a special Test win and a 3-0 sweep in India is pretty epic and pretty crazy.”
Patel’s performance in the series made him the most successful visiting bowler at a single Indian ground, with a total of 25 wickets. He added, “Every time I come back to Mumbai, it just feels like home.”
“You get that vibe from a place. It’s the same when I get back to New Zealand and to Auckland for the first time after a while. You get that special feeling and feel more comfortable.”
New Zealand’s collective effort was highlighted, with Mitchell Santner taking 13 wickets in the second Test in Pune.
Patel emphasized, “It was about challenging some of the best players in the world in their home conditions. I don’t think any of us took a backward step. That’s the biggest thing about this series. It’s been a collective effort with different guys stepping up at different times, especially in clutch moments when the team needed it.”
New Zealand will next host England in a three-Test series starting later this month.
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