New Zealand Spinner Ajaz Patel Reflects on Limited Opportunities Ahead of Afghanistan Test

New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel expresses disappointment over limited opportunities despite his record ten-wicket haul, emphasizing that the scarcity fuels his hunger to perform. The team is in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, for a one-off Test against Afghanistan from September 9 to 13.

New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel has expressed his disappointment at the lack of opportunities to play, despite achieving a remarkable ten-wicket haul in an innings. Nevertheless, he believes this scarcity of chances builds a greater hunger to excel whenever he gets to play.

Speaking ahead of the one-off Test match against Afghanistan in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, Ajaz stated that home conditions in New Zealand are more pace-friendly, limiting spinners' chances. However, this fosters a stronger desire to perform well in spin-friendly environments. "It breeds more hunger when you get to conditions like this. You are quite hungry to go out there and put in your best performance. It's really important to prepare well and enjoy the conditions," Ajaz said.

Ajaz underlined the importance of continuous improvement in a professional environment. Despite being only the third player to achieve a ten-wicket haul in an innings, Ajaz has played just 16 Tests since his debut in 2018. He emphasized the need to stay prepared for future opportunities, signaling improvements he has made to his bowling technique. "It's about growing your game and being ready when the next opportunity comes. It's always a privilege to play for New Zealand," he added.

The New Zealand team arrived in Greater Noida on Thursday for their upcoming one-off Test against Afghanistan, scheduled from September 9 to 13. Notable players including Test skipper Tim Southee, star batter Kane Williamson, and vice-captain Tom Latham are part of the squad.

(With inputs from agencies.)