MUMBAI: Ajaz Patel said helping New Zealand wrap up a 3-0 series sweep in India on Sunday was even more special than his spectacular outing at the Wankhede Stadium three years ago when the Mumbai-born spinner picked up 10 wickets in one innings.

Patel took 5-103 in the first innings of the third and final Test and 6-57 in the second as the Black Caps sealed a 25-run win on Sunday to become the first team to blank India in a home series featuring three or more Tests.

The 36-year-old said his incredible figures in the 2021 Test were tarnished by the fact New Zealand lost the match heavily.

“It’s certainly sweeter. I can say that for sure,” Patel told New Zealand media. “Coming here last time and having that achievement, but at the same time getting a hiding, didn’t make it feel that special.

“This time around, bowling the team to a special test win and a 3-0 sweep in India is pretty epic and pretty crazy.”

Patel’s 11-wicket haul made him the most successful visiting bowler at a single Indian ground with 25 wickets. He had claimed 10-119 and 4-106 in New Zealand’s 372-run defeat against the hosts in 2021.

“Every time I come back to Mumbai, it just feels like home,” added Patel.

Published in Dawn, November 5th, 2024