Irfan back in ODI squad

Irfan Pathan has been selected for the tri-series in Australia which starts on February 5th. Irfan last played for India before West Indies, in CB series 2008 in which India were crowned Champions. His debut series was in Down-under, he got an opportunity in the 2nd Test in Adelaide and got three important wickets. He got rid of Justin Langer and Ricky Ponting. What is unique about him is his ability to bowl off-cutters and leg-cutters and curb the run flow.

Test Career batting & bowling of the Baroda man

	Mat	Inn	NotOut	Runs	Best	Avg.	100	50	Strike rate	ct
Ind	29	40	5	1105	102	31.57	1	6	53.2	8
	Mdns	Wkt	Runs	BB	Avg	5WI	10WI	Strk	Econ
Ind	212	100	3226	7-59	32.26	7	2	58.8	3.29

Irfan Pathan started his career against the Aussies who were then lead by Mark Waugh. His first Test victim was Mathew Hayden, as he knocked his stumps clean. That was Mark Waugh’s last series for Australia. Slowly Irfan found his rhythm and had many successful tours. He also had a good VB series in 2004, where he was awarded MOM in 7th ODI, as he took four wickets.

One Day career of Irfan both bat and ball

	Matches	Inn	NO	Runs	Best	Avg	100	50
Ind	107	78	18	1368	83	22.80	-	5
	Matches	Mdns	Runs	Wkts	BB	Avg	5WI	Econ
Ind	107	48	4546	152	5/27	29.91	1	5.27

Looking at his ODI statistics, his economy rate is good. His best bowling figures 5/27, came against a top side. He knows the Australian conditions very well, so his experience will come into play.

In 2007-08 when he toured Down-under, his contribution to India’s victory in the Perth Test was crucial. His ability to bat for a longer period and give support to the other batsmen, is his special characteristic. Sometimes he might be erratic as he was in CB series 2nd final. His bowling figures were 2/54 in 7.4 overs.

In the current tour, India was in need of a good all-rounder who had toured previously to Australia. Irfan’s job will be to take wickets in his first spell. With Zak back in action, he may be considered as the 3rd fast bowler, after the opening bowlers finish their first spell.