Mumbai, Dec 10 (UNI) A day after announcing his retirement from all forms of cricket, former India wicket-keeper batsman Parthiv Patel on Thursday joined five-time IPL champions Mumbai Indians as a Talent Scout.
Parthiv, who was part of the RCB squad in the recently-concluded 2020 edition, has previously represented Mumbai Indians for three seasons, winning the title in two of them (2015 and 2017).
Patel, who led Gujarat to the maiden Ranji Trophy win in the 2016-17 season, brings a vast domestic and international cricketing experience spanning over two decades, along with an understanding of the fast-paced IPL competition.
The 35-year-old will work closely with the Mumbai Indians coaching staff and scouts’ group.
"I had enjoyed my cricket playing for Mumbai Indians, those momentous three years with the champion sides remain etched in my memory. It's time now to turn a new chapter in my life. I am excited, confident, and thankful to the Mumbai Indians management for the opportunity presented to me," Parthiv said, following the announcement of his new role with the franchise.
Mumbai Indians are the pioneers amongst the IPL franchises for its robust and intensive scouting program. Over the past few years, the franchise has been able to explore untapped territories, tournaments to identify and scout raw talents, which shape the Indian cricket landscape.
John Wright, the former India coach, served in a similar capacity for the franchise, and is credited with unearthing Jasprit Bumrah ahead of the 2013 season.
Team owner Akash Ambani spoke highly of MI's latest addition to their support staff, and the fact that Parthiv understands the team's 'ideology', thanks to his association during a very successful phase.
"I am delighted to have Parthiv joining us. We had the opportunity to pick his cricketing brain during his playing days at Mumbai Indians. I am very confident of his contribution to further enhance our scouting system with the depth of cricketing knowledge he possesses. Parthiv understands our ideology, the DNA of Mumbai Indians, and what we are trying to create at MI," Akash said.
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