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Munaf Patel, more than two decades ago, embodied the same traits that define him today: simplicity, honesty, hard work, and quiet confidence. Known for being quick on his feet and a straight shooter, these qualities have remained consistent throughout his life. Despite his achievements, Munaf continues to maintain a low profile, focusing more on helping the current generation of fast bowlers.
His humility and dedication to the game make him a respected figure in Indian cricket, both as a former player and as a mentor to emerging talent on behalf of the GMR group, which co-owns the Delhi Capitals. During the UP T20 League in Lucknow, Munaf Patel, while spotting talent, took the opportunity to reconnect with old friends and briefly spoke with CricBlogger over the phone.
Reflecting on his current involvement in the game, Munaf shared, “I enjoy a lot as a talent spotter watching fast bowlers all across the country.” His passion for discovering young fast-bowling talent remains strong, highlighting his quiet but impactful role in Indian cricket today. Despite being the unsung hero of India’s 2011 World Cup triumph under MS Dhoni, Munaf’s low-key presence continues as he nurtures the next generation of bowlers with the same dedication that characterised his playing days.
Who would forget that day when Munaf, before he burst into the scene, appeared on a national daily The Times of India as India’s fastest bowler. At the start of the millennium, even Sachin Tendulkar wrote a big letter to the ONGC authorities to offer a job to Munaf Patel and that was starting of all good things for the young fast bowler then. “I can’t forget that moment even today,” he says with simmering emotions.
So, how quick was Munaf? He was known for his pace and sharpness, especially in his early years. In 2005, during a tri-series in Malaysia involving the West Indies and Australia, Munaf’s speed was on full display in the nets. Virender Sehwag, at the peak of his form, faced Munaf’s barrage of short-of-length deliveries aimed at the ribs, handling them with his usual brilliance. It was a true test of skill, and only a player in Sehwag’s prime could have dealt with such bowling.
Gautam Gambhir, now India’s coach, was also part of that squad, but rather than facing Munaf’s fierce short-pitched bowling, he preferred to befriend “Munna Bhai,” as Munaf was affectionately known within the team. This camaraderie with teammates balanced Munaf’s fierce on-field persona with his off-field humility.
Munaf Patel, despite losing some of his pace due to recurring injuries, never let that diminish his passion for the game. He adapted by learning to mix his pace effectively and mastering the slower ball—a crucial skill for fast bowlers at the highest level. His ability to bowl smartly within his physical limitations made him a valuable asset to the Indian team.
It’s interesting to ponder on why Munaf, with his expertise, isn’t currently a bowling coach, especially with Gambhir as head coach. One reason could be that India’s current bowling coach, Morne Morkel, may not have emphasised the slower ball much during his playing days, raising curiosity about what he’s focusing on with the current crop of bowlers.
Meanwhile, Munaf remains content in his role as a talent spotter in franchise cricket, where his laid-back personality and deep knowledge of the game allow him to guide young bowlers from the grassroots level, even if he isn’t officially coaching at the highest level.
