IND vs NZ: New Zealand spinner Aijaz Patel excited for Test series against India

New Zealand’s Aijaz Patel is thrilled to return to his native land but as a cricketer he knows how difficult it is for a spinner to face Indian batsmen on his soil. Patel, a left-arm spinner, was born in Mumbai but moved with his family to New Zealand at the age of eight.

The 33-year-old Patel, who hasn’t bowled in first-class cricket since June, wants to play a key role in the two-Test series against India starting in Kanpur on Thursday. He said, “I am in those parts of India which I have not seen before. India is fantastic but in the current environment we cannot go out and experience it.

Also read- Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2021-22: Tamil Nadu beat Karnataka by 4 wickets in thrilling final to become champions for the second time in a row

Patel said, “There is a lot of excitement about India. There is also a calm in the middle of the temper which makes it special.” Regarding bowling on Indian pitches, he said, “We know what the spin bowlers have to do here but also know what the Indian batsmen have to do on their soil.” How tough is it for a spinner to face? It is challenging but I am excited about it.”

Patel, who has taken 26 wickets in nine Tests for New Zealand so far, feels the SG red ball presents a different kind of challenge to the overseas bowlers.

Also read- Shane Warne supported this player for the captaincy of the Australian team

“The SG ball is different. Like Duke. Quite stiff but good to hold. Its challenges are different. Our preparation has been very good and hopefully the performance will also be good.

The New Zealand team has not won a Test in India since 1988. Patel and off-spinner Will Somerville will take charge of the Kiwis’ spin attack.