Playing for England means everything to me, says Samit Patel

Patel was last selected for England's tour to South Africa but did not play a game.

Samit Patel has opened up about his career, after leading Nottinghamshire to their first T20 Blast title. Patel said that losing a place in the England side was hurting and wanted to play for his country again. Patel was last selected for England‘s tour to South Africa, but was not involved in the playing XI.

According to a report published cricbuzz, Patel said, “I love playing for England. It means the utmost to me. I don’t think that I’ve let them down when I’ve pulled on an England shirt. The selectors haven’t spoken to me since the South Africa trip that I went on and didn’t play.”

32-year-old Patel further added that wearing an England jersey means everything to him and he felt disappointed after selectors ignored him despite good show in domestic circuit.

“And yes, that has hurt. I’m not going to lie to you, especially, in the white-ball format. I’m an ambitious player. You shouldn’t play for Notts if you don’t want to play for England in my opinion. Putting on that England shirt… it means everything to me,” he explained.

Patel was hopeful of a Test call-up.

“I know my game much more now,” he said. “I’m a different player. The tempo of my batting has improved this year. Class will always show. Don’t even count me out of Test cricket. I know I’m ready. If the selectors ring me, I’m ready.”