Ajaz Patel added to BLACKCAPS T20 squad to face Pakistan

The BLACKCAPS selectors have opted to add a second specialist spinner to the T20 squad, with Central Stags left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel drafted in from New Zealand A.
 
BLACKCAPS coach Gary Stead said Patel was in form and would offer the necessary balance to the side considering the conditions in the UAE.
 
“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.”
 
Patel claimed 4-57 across the three T20s between New Zealand A and Pakistan A, at an impressive economy rate of just over six runs-per-over. 
 
The call-up could pave the way for an earlier than expected BLACKCAPS debut for the 30-year-old, who was named in the Test squad for the first time before the tour.
 
The BLACKCAPS open the T20I series against Pakistan on Wednesday night in Abu Dhabi, 5am Thursday morning NZT, live on SKY Sport.
 
BLACKCAPS T20 Squad
Kane Williamson (c)
Corey Anderson
Mark Chapman
Lockie Ferguson
Colin de Grandhomme
Adam Milne
Colin Munro
Ajaz Patel
Glenn Phillips
Seth Rance
Tim Seifert
Ish Sodhi
Tim Southee
Ross Taylor
 
BLACKCAPS tour schedule