Dave Patel

Born on 22 December 1993, in the cricket-loving city of Leicester, Dave Patel carved his niche in the world of cricket with an indomitable spirit and a pair of bowling shoes always ready for action. From a young age, Dave exhibited a natural affinity for the sport, often found with a cricket ball in hand across the verdant grounds of his local park. His passion and dedication didn’t go unnoticed; by the age of eleven, he had become a key player in his school cricket team.

Dave's journey from local clubs to the professional pitch was a whirlwind of hard work and wits. Standing as a right-arm fast-medium bowler, he made his first-class debut for Leicestershire at the tender age of 19, in a match against Hampshire. His debut wasn't just any match; it saw him claiming a staggering five-wicket haul, putting the cricketing world on notice of a prodigy in the making.

Throughout his career, Dave became synonymous with precision and finesse. His right-hand batting was more of a tail-ender’s delight, often contributing crucial runs in pressure-laden scenarios. Yet, it was his bowling where he truly excelled. With his deceptive pace and the ability to swing the ball both ways, he became a nightmare for even the most seasoned batsmen. His spellbinding performances were central to Leicestershire's successes, including their celebrated championship run in 2018, where his 45 wickets were pivotal.

Amongst his achievements, perhaps none stands out more than the match against arch-rivals Nottinghamshire, where his blistering 7 for 31 remains etched in the annals of county cricket folklore. Matches against stalwarts like Stuart Broad and James Pattinson often defined his career, consistently pushing him to elevate his game.

Dave's approach was unorthodox but effective; he had a peculiar knack for targeting the stumps, ensuring every delivery had the potential to change the game. Over his decorated career, he amassed over 300 first-class wickets, earning the reputation of being a relentless competitor on the field.

Off the pitch, Dave’s impact went beyond mere numbers. His commitment to mentoring younger players and fostering grassroots cricket in Leicester has endeared him to fans and peers alike. With each delivery and every match, he left a legacy of resilience and inspiration, proving that determination knows no bounds in the gentleman's game.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats