Life often takes unexpected turns, and few stories in world cricket reflect this better than that of Ansh Patel, Canada’s left-arm wrist-spinner, whose journey from Vadodara to Toronto and back to Indian soil at the Narendra Modi Stadium is nothing short of extraordinary.
On Monday, Ansh Patel could walk out to play a Men’s T20 World Cup match barely 110 kilometres away from the city where he spent 12 crucial years honing his cricketing craft. But instead of India’s blue, he will be donning Canada’s red jersey as they open their Group D campaign against South Africa.
Born in Vadodara, Ansh moved to Toronto as a ten-month-old before returning to India years later to chase his cricketing dreams. His journey saw him rise through India’s domestic structure, represent Baroda at multiple age-group levels, and even earn a place in the Punjab Kings squad during the Indian Premier League 2022 season.
However, a regulatory change by the Board of Control for Cricket in India — making an Indian passport mandatory to play domestic cricket — forced Ansh, a Canadian passport holder, to return to Canada and reboot his career.
Speaking to IANS, Ansh recalled how dramatically his life changed. Five years ago, he was playing T20 cricket for Baroda; today, he stands on the global stage representing another nation. After moving back to Canada in June 2024, he made his international debut and soon featured in series against Oman and Nepal, moments he described as immensely proud for himself and his family.
Ansh’s love for spin bowling began early, inspired by YouTube videos of the legendary Shane Warne. Realising that Canada’s infrastructure couldn’t fully support elite-level cricket, his father Pradip made a life-altering sacrifice by leaving a settled career in Canada and relocating the family to India in 2012.
That bold decision paid dividends. Former India opener Anshuman Gaekwad spotted Ansh’s talent during a trial and advised the family to move to Vadodara. Soon after, Ansh represented Baroda across U14, U16, U19 and U23 levels and trained under former India wicketkeeper Kiran More.
His performances earned him opportunities as a net bowler with Mumbai Indians, where he trained alongside stars like Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah and even met Sachin Tendulkar — a moment he calls unforgettable.
Ansh’s IPL breakthrough came when then Punjab Kings head coach Anil Kumble spotted his bowling and backed him at the auction. The moment his name was called remains one of the most emotional memories for his family.
Today, Ansh finds himself in what he calls the “group of death” at the T20 World Cup, featuring South Africa, New Zealand, Afghanistan and UAE. Yet, buoyed by Canada’s historic win over Ireland in the previous edition, belief within the squad is strong.
Despite limited international experience, Ansh’s role is clear — attack in the middle overs and take wickets. His years in Indian conditions could prove crucial as matches are scheduled in Ahmedabad, New Delhi and Chennai.
Reflecting on his journey, Ansh summed it up simply: life is short, take your chances, and give it your best shot — because you never know where the game will take you.
