Discarded India Star All Set To Return To Action After Staisfying 'Yo Yo' Test Result

Not even in the frame to get a national call-up, a dismal domestic season last year but Irfan Pathan is keen to leave those setbacks and start afresh in the upcoming Ranji Trophy, The discarded India allrounder, who will be leading Baroda again, had a forgettable outing as captain last season where the team managed to win just two out of its eight games. Pathan’s performance was not good either as he averaged 22.44 with the bat and managed just 11 wickets in six games at 41.54.

However, come this season and the fans can see a Pathan who is in a better frame of mind and is in great shape.

“I am in a much better space than last year. The pre- season training has been satisfying and I don’t remember the last time I felt fitter. Baroda trainer took my YoYo test recently and I scored 16, which is pretty satisfying,” he told PTI.

Pathan, whose last international appearance came in 2012, further insisted that he is not thinking too much about the future and is currently focussed on doing the job for Baroda, who have not qualified for the Ranji knock-outs since 2012-13.

“Because everytime you think too far ahead (of playing for India again), that is where the problem lies. If you stay in the present, other things take care of themselves. Your own expectations sometimes put you down. If something is going to happen in the future, it will happen no matter what,” he said.

“I am really happy with the way things are going, fitness wise as well as bowling and batting wise. I have also put a lot of effort on my fielding while preparing for the coming season. Most importantly, my mindset is very very clear. I want to do well for Baroda and other things will follow,” he added.