Biography of Sohel Patel

Name: Sohel Patel
Country: Panama
Born: May 22, 1987
Playing Role: All-rounder
Batting Style: Right-hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right-arm Medium

Early Life

Sohel Patel was born on May 22, 1987, in the vibrant city of Panama. Growing up in a country that has been primarily associated with football, Sohel was an anomaly—a young boy profoundly passionate about cricket. His fascination with the game began at a tender age, influenced by the limited exposure of international cricket on television and the local matches he would watch. He honed his skills in the streets, where he played with makeshift wickets and enthusiastic friends.

Cricket Journey

Starting his formal cricket training at a local academy, Sohel quickly showcased his talent as both a batsman and a bowler. His commitment and hard work earned him a place in the regional under-19 team, where he stood out as a promising all-rounder. Sohel's breakthrough came when he was selected to play for the Panama national team at the age of 20, making his debut in 2007. Despite emerging from a non-traditional cricketing nation, his dedication captivated selectors and fans alike.

Debut and Early Career

Sohel Patel made his official international debut in an ODI against a visiting team in 2007. Though the match didn’t go as planned for him personally, with a low score, it was a learning experience that propelled him into a rigorous training regime. His improvement was evident in subsequent matches where he began contributing significantly to the team's performances. His key assets—a right-handed batting technique combined with medium pace bowling—made him a valuable team member.

Key Milestones and Achievements

Throughout his career, Sohel achieved several milestones which underscored his importance to the Panama team. He notched his first international half-century in a pivotal match against a stronger opponent, where he scored an impressive 78 runs. This performance arrested the attention of regional scouts and solidified his place in the playing eleven. He soon became known for his all-round capabilities, often providing crucial breakthroughs with the ball while anchoring innings with the bat.

Records and Impact on the Game

Sohel Patel's career saw him outshine numerous expectations for a cricketer from Panama. He became one of the first players from his country to record over 1000 runs in ODIs, a landmark achievement that inspired many young cricketers in a country where cricket was still developing. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations earned him accolades not just regionally, but in friendlies against international teams, drawing the attention of cricketing communities globally.

He also set a record for the highest individual score by a Panamanian in ODIs with a stellar 132 runs against a prominent cricketing nation. His all-round contributions were crucial in Panama's qualification for ICC tournaments, marking a significant chapter in Panamanian cricket history.

Career Statistics

Sohel Patel's international cricket stats provide a comprehensive overview of his capabilities:

ODI Career Statistics

• Matches: 80
• Innings: 75
• Runs: 1,350
• Highest Score: 132
• Averages: 24.00
• Centuries: 1
• Half-Centuries: 6
• Wickets: 50
• Bowling Average: 30.00

T20 International Career Statistics

• Matches: 50
• Innings: 45
• Runs: 900
• Highest Score: 98
• Averages: 22.00
• Centuries: 0
• Half-Centuries: 5
• Wickets: 30
• Bowling Average: 28.00

Conclusion

Sohel Patel's journey from the streets of Panama to the international cricket arena is an extraordinary tale of determination and success. His contributions to the Panama national team and his ability to inspire aspiring cricketers in his country have made him a pivotal figure in the development of cricket in Panama. As he continues his career, the world watches closely to see what this remarkable player will accomplish next.

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