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Former Indian pacer Irfan Pathan, renowned for his sharp cricketing insights and engaging personality, has once again captured the attention of fans and followers with his humorous commentary on the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 series.
As India face off against Australia in first Test at Perth, the pitch has become a focal point of discussion among players and analysts alike. Known for its unpredictable nature, the Perth surface has historically posed challenges for batters and bowlers, making it a critical factor in the outcome of the match.
Irfan Pathan’s hilarious observation of the Perth’s pitch
In a light-hearted yet pointed observation, Pathan took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his thoughts on the rapidly changing conditions of the pitch. He cleverly compared its volatility to the mood swings of his wife, suggesting that even she doesn’t change her mood as quickly as the pitch transformed during the match. He tweeted,“Itna jaldi to meri wife ka mood bhi change nahi hota jitni jaldi ye pitch badli hai” (My wife’s mood does not change this fast compared to Perth’s surface).
Itna jaldi to meri wife ka mood bhi change nahi hota jitni jaldi ye pitch badli hai. pic.twitter.com/crzEw8VUVT
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) November 23, 2024
This witty remark not only showcases Pathan’s playful side but also highlights the extreme fluctuations in pitch behavior that can dramatically influence a Test match. On Day 1, bowlers thrived on a green surface that saw 17 wickets tumble, while Day 2 brought a shift that allowed Indian batters to assert their dominance against Australia’s pace attack.
As the match unfolded, Indian openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul took advantage of the improved batting conditions, forming a solid partnership that marked the first century stand of the series and ended the day with 172/0 in India’s second innings. Their performance provided India with a significant lead of around 218 runs, demonstrating how quickly fortunes can turn in Test cricket, especially on a pitch as unpredictable as Perth.
Also READ: Twitter reactions: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul put India in control over Australia on Day 2 of Perth Test
Pathan’s expectations from Virat Kohli
In addition to his commentary on the pitch, Pathan expressed confidence in Virat Kohli‘s ability to excel in Australian conditions. He emphasized that Kohli thrives against pace bowling and that the fast, bouncy pitches would play to his strengths. Despite Kohli’s recent struggles in Test cricket, where he has faced challenges in form, Pathan believes that Australia’s competitive environment will ignite Kohli’s competitive spirit.
“Why I believe Virat Kohli will excel in Australia: He thrives against pace. Despite his recent dip in Test form, his numbers against pace remain exceptional. Australia’s fast and bouncy pitches will play to his strengths. Kohli feeds off energy and big challenges. The Aussies will come hard at him, and there’s no bigger Test challenge than playing Australia in their backyard. This is when Kohli’s competitive spirit truly shines,” the all-rounder articulated his belief succinctly. He further noted that facing Australia at home is one of cricket’s greatest challenges and that Kohli’s history of success against Australian bowlers positions him well for a strong performance.
Why I believe Virat Kohli will excel in Australia:
1️⃣ He thrives against pace. Despite his recent dip in Test form, his numbers against pace remain exceptional. Australia’s fast and bouncy pitches will play to his strengths.
2️⃣ Kohli feeds off energy and big challenges. The…— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) November 20, 2024
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy holds significant implications for India’s aspirations in the World Test Championship. Following a disappointing series against New Zealand, India must secure a comprehensive victory against Australia to keep their hopes alive for qualification. With key players like Rohit Sharma unavailable for the first Test due to personal commitments, Kohli’s role becomes even more pivotal in the first Test of the tour.
