Irfan Pathan Set to Join Jammu & Kashmir Team

Discarded India all-rounder Irfan Pathan is reportedly close to signing up for Jammu & Kashmir as his next domestic team.

According to media reports, the 33-year old has already held discussions with Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) head Ashiq Hussain Bukhari, and the JKCA has also called a meeting on Wednesday (January 24) to take a final call.

Pathan, who recently obtained a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Baroda Cricket Association, is likely to take over as a player-cum-mentor of Jammu and Kashmir Cricket team.

“The formalities could be completed once Bukhari Sahib, who is now a, is back in the country. We have also called a meeting on Wednesday (January 24) to take a final call. The JKCA head also held meeting with former India captain Kapil Dev in this regard,” a JKCA official KNB.

Pathan, who last represented India in 2012, was named Baroda’s captain and mentor before the start of the Ranji season. However, he was stripped of the captaincy and got dropped from the side after just two games. The 33-year old wasn’t selected for the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament as well.

Just like others, Pathan was also taken aback by his sacking and had rued he was not told about being not required before the season started.

“I am as fit as ever, and there is no issue with my performances and commitment to serve Team Baroda. I felt very proud when I was made the captain and was told that I would be the perfect mentor to the youngsters. I have worked hard with the boys for the last couple of months, and they are very happy with whatever we have been doing. I really don’t know what has gone wrong after just two games,” he had told Ahmedabad Times.

“Had I been told that my services won’t be required before the domestic season started, I would have happily stepped aside. Although I love Baroda and take a lot of pride in representing the team, I might have gone and played for another team. Be it for Team India or Team Baroda; I have always given my 100 percent. I am a fighter, and no matter what happens, I will remain one,” he had added.

Pathan, who played 29 Tests, 120 ODIs and 24 T20Is, has played 113 first-class games so far, scoring 4096 runs in addition to picking up 365 wickets.