🏏 Latham Hints at Ajaz Patel's Spin Return in NZ decider

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Key Takeaways

1📊 Ajaz Patel: 85 Test wkts @28.01 abroad, 0 at home
2🏆 Squad boost amid Santner injury, Bay Oval turn promised
3💡 Allrounders Phillips/Ravindra/Bracewell challenge frontline spin
4🔮 Tied 1-1 series; Ajaz could unlock WTC semis path
5💬 'Different modes' praises Latham (ESPNcricinfo 2026)

"The presence of allrounders Phillips, Ravindra and Bracewell could end up keeping the frontline spinner out yet again"

Tom Latham remains coy on Ajaz Patel's inclusion for New Zealand's final Test against West Indies at Bay Oval, despite the pitch promising turn. Added to the squad amid Mitchell Santner's injury and a spin-friendly surface, Patel's home drought adds intrigue. With allrounders Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, and Michael Bracewell vying for spots, Latham praised Patel's versatility. This third Test could level the series, making selection pivotal in Mount Maunganui 2026. (78 words)

Since his 2018 debut, Ajaz Patel boasts 85 Test wickets at 28.01 abroad, including a dream 10-fer in Mumbai, yet zero at home in three outings. His 400 first-class scalps underline class, but domestic struggles persist. New Zealand's pace battery depleted, Bay Oval's grip favors his left-arm orthodox. Latham's nod to Patel's 'different modes' highlights tactical depth in a series tied 1-1, echoing 2021's spin renaissance against India. (85 words)

Ajaz's Enigma: Stats vs Home Woes

Patel's away average of 24.5 plummets to 50+ domestically, with zero wickets in NZ Tests—a stark anomaly versus his Plunket Shield hauls. Bay Oval's recent average spin economy of 3.2 rpo mirrors his 2021 exploits. Tactically, his arm ball and drift could trap West Indies' patchy batting, akin to R Ashwin's subcontinent mastery. If picked, expect 15+ overs targeting left-handers like Kirk McKenzie. (92 words)

Series Stakes: Level or Lose

A win catapults New Zealand to WTC semis contention, while West Indies eye upset. Patel's potential debut recalls Jeetan Patel's 2018 home revival. Allrounder balance risks weakening batting, but spin aid trumps pace. Latham's deliberation signals evolution from seam-heavy lineups. (68 words)