New Delhi: Indian-origin New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel would have never imagined in his dreams that his tour to India would become the turning point in his Test career.
Born in Mumbai in 1988, Ajaz single-handedly picked up 10 wickets in the first innings of the second and final Test against India at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. He equaled legendary Indian spinner Anil Kumble and England's Jim Laker record for taking 10 wickets in a Test innings.
Patel also took four wickets in the second innings but despite this he did not get the 'Man of the Match' award. However, Team India ensured to not let his historic achievement go in vain as they honoured the Kiwi spinner by gifting him a signed jersey during an interview for bcci.tv.
A picture posted via BCCI's official twitter handle has gone viral on social media in which India's star off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin can be seen handing over the signed jersey to Ajaz.
Talking about Ind vs NZ 2nd Test, despite Ajaz's historic bowling performance, New Zealand suffered a crushing defeat by 372 runs in this match. India won the two-match Test series by 1-0.
Apart from the Indian cricket team, Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) chief Vijay Patil also felicitated Ajaz Patel for his stellar performance.
A senior Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) official told news agency PTI, "MCA President Vijay Patil honored Ejaz Patel by giving a score sheet and a memento."
In return, Ajaz decided to give the match ball and a jersey for the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) museum.