Jitesh Patel

Born on the 1st of May, 1986, in Leicester, England, Jitesh Patel emerged from the local cricket circuits with a natural talent and passion that would soon make him a revered name in cricket. From the time he held a cricket ball as a young boy on the village greens of Leicestershire, Jitesh exuded an instinctive flair for the game. As a left-arm fast-medium bowler, he could swing the ball both ways, challenging batsmen with his cunning and pace.

Jitesh's formal cricketing journey began in earnest during his teenage years, as he shone for his school team and quickly caught the attention of county selectors. His professional debut for Leicestershire in 2006 marked the beginning of a prosperous career. Over the years, he earned a reputation as a formidable bowler, renowned for his sharp inswingers and deceptive slower balls. On numerous occasions, he led his team to crucial victories, often breaking partnerships with his consistent ability to pick wickets under pressure.

A prominent highlight of his career came during the 2010 County Championship, where Jitesh was the leading wicket-taker for his team, with his exhilarating spells helping Leicestershire secure a Finals berth. This performance, complemented by his dynamic lower-order left-hand batting, which occasionally bolstered the team's scores with vital runs, established Jitesh as a key player.

Rivalries have always brought out the best in sportspersons, and for Jitesh, the matches against Warwickshire were a stage for many memorable performances. His ability to dismiss top-order batsmen, including a celebrated five-wicket haul in a nail-biting encounter against them in 2012, cemented his status as a competitor par excellence.

Off the pitch, Jitesh's leadership and mentorship to younger players have left an indelible influence on the game's grassroots development. He often recounts a particular moment in 2015, where during a county final, he defended four runs in the last over — a feat that remains etched in the memories of fans and epitomises his consummate skill under pressure.

While Jitesh’s international career remained elusive, his dynamic performances in domestic circuits have left an enduring legacy. Not only has he set records and contributed to his team's triumphs, but he has also inspired the next generation of cricketers with his commitment to the sport and his intrinsic love for the game.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats