He is a left-handed batsman and a slow left-arm chinaman bowler. Patel made his debut first-class appearance for Derbyshire in April 2007 at the age of just 16, making a sturdy innings of 31 against Cambridge University UCCE, assisting the county"s new Danish star Frederik Klokker on the latter"s way to a century in just his second first-class appearance. Patel also appeared in 2007 for Derbyshire"s Second XI team, once again in partnership with Klokker.
He made a handful of games for the Outlaws before being released at the end of 2011 season.
He also played Nottinghamshire Cricket Board Premier League for his home club Kimberley Institute Cricket Club.