'I'm grateful to the BCCI for scheduling this game' - Ajaz Patel gets emotional upon return to Wankhede Stadium

As soon as the Black Caps made their way to The Taj Mahal Palace in Colaba and subsequently the Wankhede Stadium after a few hours being spent in rejuvenating themselves, it was the Kiwis' left-arm spinner, Ajaz Patel, who immediately made his way to evaluate the pitch. After all, it was at the very same venue that he became only the third bowler in the history of Test cricket to achieve a 10-wicket haul in an innings, a feat he had attained in 2021.

The New Zealand left-arm spinner expressed gratitude to the Board of Control for Cricket in India, tagging Mumbai as his "home".

"Mumbai is a special place for me, not just because I was born here and have family ties, but because Wankhede was the scene of my greatest achievement in cricket," Patel, 36, reflected emotionally in a press conference.

"After taking that 10-fer, I wasn't sure if I'd ever have the chance to play here again. I'm grateful to the BCCI for scheduling this game and allowing me to return to what feels like home," stated Patel, as quoted by India Today. 

Patel admitted to not getting adequate gametime since the marvellous feat. However, he was clear with his intentions as far as his professional career is concerned.

"After the 10-fer, I haven't had as many opportunities to play, but every chance I get to represent New Zealand is special. Whether it's here or back home, I don't take it for granted. The expectations are high, but all I'm focused on is giving my best in the next Test," mentioned Patel.

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The support from home is always strong: Patel

Patel also provided a comparison between the intensity with which supporters back the cricket teams in both the countries.

"In New Zealand, we love our sports, but cricket's following isn't as intense as in India. Yet, the support from home is always strong, regardless of the sport," added Patel.

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Patel's family moved to New Zealand when he was eight. However, they maintained a close bond with his extended family who live in Mumbai. Patel, who has had a surprisingly lukewarm series so far, would be expected to deliver the goods at what could be rightfully called his home away from home.