ON THIS DAY IN 2021: The iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai has been a witness to many historical events. One such unusual feat in the game of cricket unfolded on December 4, 2021 when New Zealand’s Ajaz Patel became the only third bowler in the history of cricket to take a 10-wicket haul in an innings.
Ajaz Patel who had spent his initial years in Mumbai before moving to New Zealand had the perfect homecoming as he became only the third bowler to pick up all ten wickets in an innings joining the elite club that included India’s Anil Kumble (against Pakistan in 1999) and England off-spinner Jim Laker (in 1956 against Australia).
Ajaz Patel bowled 47.5 overs across two days picking up four wickets on Day 1 and six wickets on Day 2. Ajaz Patel’s milestone moment came when Mohammed Siraj top-edged a slog-sweep to Rachin Ravindra on the second afternoon of the second Test at Wankhede Stadium.
After his 10-wicket haul, Ajaz Patel said: “It is pretty surreal. I don’t think you ever really believe that you are going to achieve something like that, so to do it is pretty special. I am in illustrious company”
Some of his wickets include Virat Kohli, Pujara and Ravichandran Ashwin for ducks, as well as top-scorer Agarwal (150) and Axar Patel.
However, New Zealand batters failed to build on the terrific performance by the left arm-spinner and the team was bowled out at just 62 while chasing India’s 325. India clinched the series 1-0 after winning the game but it was a memorable day for Ajaz Patel and one that he will remember for the rest of his life.
