Ajaz Patel’s historic 10-wicket haul won high praise from all corners, with cricketing greats from all over the globe making their admiration of the incredible feat known.

Ajaz claimed all ten wickets in the first innings of the second India-New Zealand Test, joining a short, illustrious list which before today had just two names on it: England’s Jim Laker and India’s Anil Kumble. Ajaz was the first to achieve the feat away from home, and the first to do so in the first innings of a Test match.

Ajaz’s feat was instantly applauded. As you would expect, Twitter favourite Jimmy Neesham led the plaudits from New Zealand.

Ajaz’s countryman Simon Doull paid tribute too, and said it was “hard to argue” with the assertion that it was “the greatest ever achievement by a New Zealand cricketer”.

Australia white-ball captain Aaron Finch called it “the most amazing thing” he had ever seen, while Sachin Tendulkar also paid tribute.

Kumble, the only other living member of one of cricket’s most exclusive clubs, was quick to welcome Ajaz to the set.

And also noted was India captain Virat Kohli seeking out Ajaz after stumps to make his appreciation known.

 

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