Patel, 20, is a Surrey Academy graduate who has progressed through the Club’s system from the age of eight, and played for the Second XI in 2017, earning a scholarship to enable him to spend more time with the professional squad.
Patel forcing his way into the Specsavers County Championship side towards the back end of the season. After opening the batting on his first-class debut in the Kia Oval London Derby with Middlesex at the end of August, the all-rounder ended the season with four red ball appearances to his name. The left-hander top scored with 81 to lead Surrey to a draw on a difficult pitch at Hampshire while his right-arm medium pace offered an extra option to Gareth Batty throughout his appearances.
Patel also picked up the Anne Bickerstaff 2nd XI Champagne Moment of the Season trophy at this year’s End of Season awards, voted for by the Surrey Supporters’ Club, for his six to go to a double hundred against Gloucestershire in May.
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