Ajaz Patel entered the record books with a 10-wicket haul in the first innings of the 2nd Test between India and New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium. The Kiwis rode on to Ajaz’s historic feat to bowl out the hosts for 325 runs.

Ajaz took four wickets on the first day of the second Test and returned to take six more on the second day to complete his 10-wicket haul. He became only the third bowler in history to achieve the feat after Jim Laker and Anil Kumble.

Incredible achievement as Ajaz Patel picks up all 10 wickets in the 1st innings of the 2nd Test.

He becomes the third bowler in the history of Test cricket to achieve this feat.#INDvNZ @Paytm pic.twitter.com/5iOsMVEuWq

— BCCI (@BCCI) December 4, 2021

Reacting to the special feat, Ajaz Patel stated that it is a very special moment for him and his family. Speaking at the mid-innings break, the left-arm spinner said:

“I think I am very fortunate. The stars have aligned for me to have an occassion like that here in Mumbai. To be born here and come back here and do it is pretty special. I’m in very illustrious company, with Kumble sir as well.

He added:

“Quite a special occasion for me and not just me but my family. Unfortunately for me, they’re not here because of Covid. Honestly, it’s pretty surreal, I don’t think you will ever believe that you would achieve something like this so to do it in my career is pretty special.”

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“Don’t really have any one to be honest” – Ajaz Patel on his favourite dismissal

The 33-year-old achieved the feat when Mohammed Siraj unleased a wild slog only to top-edge it. Rachin Ravindra holed out to a difficult catch as Ajaz yelled out in joy.

When quizzed about his favourite wicket, Ajaz Patel said:

“Don’t really have any one to be honest. Just trying to get into some good rhythm, be repetitive and ask good questions of batters.”

Meanwhile, speaking of the game, Indian bowlers produced a spectacular performance to bowl out New Zealand for 62 runs. Ravichandran Ashwin picked up four wickets while Mohammed Siraj and Axar Patel returned with three and two wickets respectively to rattle the visitors and secure a first innings lead of 263 runs.

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