Mr Patel joins the College following three years with Cricket Papua New Guinea as Head Coach of the Papua New Guinea Barramundies where he coached the team to 13th/14th in the world rankings.
King’s College Headmaster Simon Lamb says the College is thrilled to have Mr Patel join the King’s Cricket community.
“Mr Patel has more than 40 years of experience in cricket at first class and international level, both as a professional player and coach,” says Mr Lamb.
“His breadth of coaching experience, technical knowledge, and passion for cultivating team cultures and individual player strengths will be an asset to further developing the talent and ongoing success of our First XI Cricket team.”
Mr Patel’s coaching experience spans all levels and age groups: Coach of the USA U19 and Senior Team, Head Coach of the New Zealand Cricket U19 team; New Zealand Cricket and Auckland Cricket Association Spin Bowling Specialist Coach; Aces Selector and 2nd X1 Head Coach for the Auckland Cricket Association; and Head Coach and Selector of the Central Districts Cricket Association.
As Howick Pakuranga Cricket Club’s Director of Cricket, Head Coach and Convenor of Selectors for 17 years, Mr Patel has a strong track record in developing young players for the next stage of their cricket careers through initiatives such as the Club’s Elite Academy and a variety of specialist coaching clinics for elite and beginner cricketing groups.
As a professional cricketer, he played 37 Tests and 75 One Day Internationals for the New Zealand Cricket team, becoming one of only five players to score 1,000 runs and take 75 wickets in New Zealand Test Cricket history, and one of only four players in the history of cricket to score 200 runs and take ten wickets in a first class match.
Mr Patel, who begins his new role with King’s this term, says he is looking forward to using his skills to grow the potential of the Senior Cricket team at King’s.
“I recognise the cricketing history that stands before me at King’s College and I aim to stay true to those traditions,” says Mr Patel.
“I’m looking forward to this new challenge, and I hope my experience will help grow, foster and mentor talented young cricketers at the College. One of my key objectives is to ensure these students realise their potential, so that I can help nurture their talents in a structured and enjoyable learning and playing environment.”
Head of Cricket at King’s, Matt Cowie says Mr Patel will be a welcome addition to the cricket coaching team at King’s.
“It is an exciting time for the King’s cricket community as we look to cement our reputation as one of the leading schools for developing the next generation of New Zealand professional cricketers.”
The King’s First XI have performed well in past and recent years securing several Auckland Championships and five national titles. High profile New Zealand professional cricketers who are alumni of the College include current Black Cap Tim Southee and former Black Caps Mark Craig and Hamish and James Marshall.
