Hyderabad, Aug 24 (IANS) New Zealand spinner Jeetan Patel believes his team is capable of making a comeback in the first Test against India.
“We have to come back tomorrow and face up to the music and fight for what we are known,” he told reporters on the second day of the Test as the visitors – at five for 106 in reply to India’s 438 – face a likely follow-on.
Patel, who was the most successful New Zealand bowler with four for 100, said the Kiwi cricket was known for their flair and the team had been in such situations many times.
“Tomorrow is a good chance to get back and understand what the situation is. If things go right, we move closer to get back into the game.”
The spinner said the loss of five wickets early on was disappointing but praised the Indian bowlers, saying they bowled good balls.
Patel said the New Zealand bowlers bowled well throughout the day Thursday but there was a bit of unluckiness. He feels the bowlers gave away too many runs.
The spinner did not agree that there was an additional pressure on him because of the absence of experienced Daniel Vettori.
“I came back into the side as an opportunity. For me, it is just another chance to play for New Zealand and do well,” he said but admitted that bowling in pairs like Ashwin and Ojha always helps.
Patel said he made changes in his bowling action a couple of years ago and was approaching the game differently and enjoying every chance he was getting to play.
