Parthiv to wed childhood friend in Ahmedabad on Sunday

AHMEDABAD: Cricketer Parthiv Patel is set to start a new innings when he ties the nuptial knot here on Sunday, also his 23rd birthday.

Parthiv will marry Avni Zaveri, a childhood friend.

"They know each other and have decided to marry. When we met the family of the girl we realised that they were living in the same area where we used to stay," Parthiv's uncle Jagat Patel said.

"Both families then decided to get them married," he said.

Parthiv, born on March 9, 1985, is hoping to win back his spot in Team India after good performances in the domestic season.

The wicketkeeper-batsman had a busy winter as captain of Gujarat in the Ranji Plate championship.

In last month's IPL auctions, Patel was bought by Chennai team, which also boasts of India's limited overs captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni.

Parthiv will also participate in the Deodhar Trophy to be played in Bangalore.

The marriage, to be held at Rajpath Club here, will be a private gathering with only family members and close friends invited.

However, the wedding reception the next day will be a grand affair.

"We have invited all important people of BCCI, Indian team members, Parthiv's coaches and players who have played with him at various levels," Jagat Patel said.