It’s another ‘homecoming’ for New Zealand player with Navsari roots

Like many Gujaratis, Jeetan Patel is returning to his roots. Jeetan is part of New Zealand team which will play the first of its three Tests at Motera Stadium from Thursday.

The off-spinner was born and brought up in New Zealand by his parents having roots in Navsari.

“I am coming here for the fifth time. In the past, I have come here to visit my late grandparents in Navsari. But I will be playing my first Test here in Gujarat,” said Jeetan, who earned his Test cap against South Africa in 2006. Brought up in Wellington, Jeetan finds it difficult to speak in Gujarati. Jeetan is second Patel, after Dipak Patel, to represent New Zealand. And he acknowledges the burden he is carrying as a spinner in the subcontinent.     

“It is going to be tough, but I am ready,” said Jeetan, looking forward to a duel with Indian stalwarts, Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and Virender Sehwag. When asked if he has developed a special weapon for the number one Test team, Jeetan said:

“Nothing special. We are working hard and will definitely put a check on Indians,” said the 30-year-old.