Sunrisers Hyderabad seamer Harshal Patel makes his much-anticipated return to Gujarat for the upcoming domestic season after spending 14 years with Haryana. This move will allow him to spend more time with his family in Ahmedabad.
Since his last appearance for Gujarat back in the 2009 season, Harshal Patel has achieved his dream of playing for India and has been clinical in the IPL, notably winning the purple cap for Royal Challengers Bangalore. He became a household name in limited-overs cricket, especially in the IPL. Harshal has taken 246 first-class wickets in 74 matches at an average of 24.02, including 12 five-wicket hauls.
Advertisement
His return to his home state was made possible after Jayant Yadav left Haryana and signed with Puducherry for the upcoming season, opening a spot for Harshal to make his dream comeback to Gujarat.
Also Read: MS Dhoni offered mentorship role by BCCI, but CSK star might refuse for this Gambhir reason: Report
Harshal Credits Haryana for Crucial Support Early in Career
Harshal praised Haryana for supporting him throughout his career and thanked them for giving him a chance when he was considering leaving the country after his under-19 days.
“Right from 2010-11, since my Under-19 days, almost my entire professional career has been with Haryana. I owe a lot to them,” Harshal told ESPNcricinfo. “If that move to Haryana as an 18-year-old hadn’t worked out, I probably would have moved to the USA and not played cricket in India.”
Also Read: "The Day I Lose That Drive, I'll Walk Away": Shami Dismisses Retirement Talk
Speaking about his return to Gujarat, Harshal expressed his excitement about coming home after nearly 15 years and said he hopes to finish his career there. He also thanked the Gujarat Cricket Association for welcoming him back.
“It was getting difficult for me to be away from my family for long periods,” he said. “So I wanted to come back and see if I could finish my career here. I’m glad I got the opportunity.” He added, “I first asked Anil Patel [secretary, Gujarat Cricket Association], and he was gracious enough to say, ‘This is your home, welcome back.’ Now that I’m back, I’m open to playing any role the team needs.”
Advertisement
Harshal Patel will feature in the preseason matches for Gujarat as they take on Baroda and Saurashtra in a tri-series as part of their preparation for the upcoming season.
Also Read: Australia ignores skipper Pat Cummins, announces: ‘Won’t be considered for India white-ball series’
