We’ve shown that terrorism doesn’t have a religion: Ajaz Patel on Christchurch mosque attack

Patel, a devout Muslim, said that he didn’t know how to control his emotions when first hearing of the attack.

New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel admitted he was shattered after hearing about the Christchurch mosque attack that resulted in the death of 50 people in last Friday’s mass shooting.

Patel, a devout Muslim, said that he didn’t know how to control his emotions when first hearing of the attack. “I didn’t know how to cope with those emotions,” he told Newshub on Thursday. “To a certain extent, I felt completely hollow. That’s probably the best way to explain it.” (ALSO READ: New Zealand recall Todd Astle for Bangladesh Test series)

Patel, who last played for the Black Caps in a Twenty20 International against Pakistan in November last year, said the love and support shown around New Zealand and the world has been heart-warming.

“We’ve shown that terrorism doesn’t have a religion and that everyone belongs in this country – every culture, every race, every religion. We are all one and we should all be treated as equals and we should strive to be one people,” Patel said. (ALSO READ: Fate played a huge role that day for Bangladesh players: Sunil Joshi)

“The way that the community has come together has been amazing and it’s been quite overwhelming, especially for the Muslim society.”

He was not part of the third and final Test against Bangladesh at Christchurch which was called off due to the terror attack. “I still see New Zealand as a peaceful country with amazing people. I identify as a proud New Zealander, and likewise, I see myself as a good Muslim,” he said. (ALSO READ: Christchurch mass shooting: When terrorist acts impacted cricket)

“I suppose now we’ve got to move forward and show a lot of love to each and everyone in the country.”