Most cricket fans will forever remember the sight of a baby-faced, diminutive 17-year-old padding up for the Indian Test side against England back in 2002. Fourteen years have passed since then, but for many, that remains the defining image of Parthiv Patel. He never managed to cement his place in the side, but he’s always been a fan favourite. So it came as welcome news on Monday when Patel, who turns 31 in a couple of weeks, was given a fresh opportunity to shine for the national team.
The Gujarat wicketkeeper-batsman was named as a back-up for Indian captain MS Dhoni for this week’s Asia Cup, after the skipper suffered a muscle spasm in his back during a training session in Dhaka on Monday.
Patel last played for India in 2012 and his recent impressive run on the domestic circuit this season has contributed to his call-up. He may not get a game during a tournament, but the just prospect of his return lit up social media on Monday evening.
Patel has always provided fodder for jokes and has even made fun of himself, as in this instance.
Some good-natured humour was on show after Patel’s call-up on Monday. Here’s a selection:
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