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Irfan Pathan, one of India’s finest all-rounders, made a significant impact in international cricket with his ability to swing the ball and contribute with the bat. Representing India from 2003 to 2012, Pathan played 29 Tests, 120 ODIs, and 24 T20Is, amassing over 250 wickets and scoring crucial runs in various formats. He was an integral part of India’s historic victories, including the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup triumph.
Recently, the former cricketer took to his YouTube channel during the #AskIrfan segment to share the three most treasured moments of his career. Pathan reflected on moments that defined his journey in international cricket.
Irfan Pathan picks his best cricketing moments
During the discussion, Pathan highlighted three unforgettable occasions that he considers the pinnacle of his career. Each moment carried special significance, marking milestones in his cricketing journey.
1. Winning the T20 World Cup 2007 final
Pathan’s standout performance came in the final of the inaugural ICC T20 World Cup, where India locked horns with Pakistan in Johannesburg. The left-arm pacer turned the game in India’s favor with a match-winning spell, registering figures of 3 for 16 in four overs. His crucial scalps included Shoaib Malik, Shahid Afridi, and Yasir Arafat, which played a key role in India’s five-run victory. For his exceptional bowling, he was awarded the Man of the Match.
“Firstly, winning the T20 World Cup. That is the highest. Because I got the Man of the Match in that,” Pathan stated.
2. India’s Test victory in Perth (2008)
Another moment Pathan cherishes is India’s memorable Test win at Perth in 2008. Following a controversial Sydney Test, India was under immense pressure, but the team regrouped to script a historic win at the WACA. Pathan’s all-round contribution—five wickets and a crucial 76 runs, including a gritty 46 while batting at No.3—earned him another Man of the Match award.
“Secondly, when I won the Test match in Perth. That was very special. Because in Australia, defeating Australia. Getting the Man of the Match there. And that too in Perth. Perth is their home. So, that was my favourite time,” Pathan recalled.
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3. Test debut in Adelaide (2003-04)
Pathan’s international journey began with a Test debut against Australia in Adelaide during the 2003-04 series. Despite taking just one wicket and missing a catch of Ricky Ponting, who later scored a double century, India clinched a rare victory at the venue after 21 years.
“The first one. You know, the first love. The first teacher. You know, all the first things. You always remember that. My debut game. My first game. The one we played in Adelaide. I got only one wicket. I missed a catch, too. Ricky Ponting’s. It was around 10-15. He scored 200. But we won the match. And that too after 21 years. In Adelaide,” Pathan added further.
