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Black Caps add Central Districts spinner Ajaz Patel to squad for Pakistan T20s

October 29, 2018
Ajaz Patel, Plunket Shield domestic cricket. Auckland Aces v Central Stags, Day 4. Colin Maiden Park, Auckland. 28 February 2017. Copyright Image: William Booth / www.photosport.nz

The Black Caps have bolstered their bowling stocks ahead of their T20 series with Pakistan in the UAE, drafting in uncapped Central Districts left-armer Ajaz Patel.

Patel, 30, has already been named in the Black Caps' Test squad for the upcoming series with Pakistan, but will now link up with the side earlier, thanks to some standout performances with the ball in New Zealand A's series with Pakistan A, conceding just a run-a-ball across three matches.

Coach Gary Stead said he was excited about Patel's inclusion, with the left-arm tweaker in good form going into the first match on Thursday NZT.

"It's no secret that spin is crucial in this part of the world and with the wickets on the slower side, we've taken the option of a second spinner to bring our squad up to 14-players," said Stead.

"We're fortunate that Ajaz has been playing over here for the past month and playing well; so he'll be ready to go should he get his chance in the series."
 

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