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Irfan Pathan, a name synonymous with grace and brilliance in Indian cricket, has left an indelible mark on the game. As one of the most versatile cricketers India has produced, his journey from humble beginnings to international stardom is nothing short of inspiring. This article explores the fascinating details of Irfan Pathan’s age, career, and life beyond cricket.
Who is Irfan Pathan Age
Irfan Pathan is a former Indian cricketer celebrated for his ability to swing the ball both ways and his contributions as a dependable all-rounder. Born on October 27, 1984, in Vadodara, Gujarat, Pathan rose to prominence at a young age. Known for his hat-trick against Pakistan and his role in India’s T20 World Cup triumph in 2007, Irfan’s legacy continues to inspire.
Wiki Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Irfan Khan Pathan |
| Date of Birth | October 27, 1984 |
| Age | 40 years (as of 2024) |
| Place of Birth | Vadodara, Gujarat, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Role in Cricket | All-rounder (Left-arm medium-fast bowler, Left-hand batsman) |
| International Debut | December 2003 (Test debut against Australia) |
| Last International Match | October 2012 (T20I against South Africa) |
| Test Matches | 29 matches, 1,105 runs, 100 wickets |
| ODI Matches | 120 matches, 1,544 runs, 173 wickets |
| T20I Matches | 24 matches, 172 runs, 28 wickets |
| Best Bowling Figures | 7/59 (Test), 5/27 (ODI) |
| Major Achievements | Hat-trick against Pakistan (2006), Player of the Match in 2007 T20 World Cup Final |
| Spouse | Safa Baig (married in 2016) |
| Children | 1 son, Imran Khan Pathan |
| Sibling | Yusuf Pathan (former Indian cricketer) |
| Net Worth | $7–8 million (estimated) |
| Post-Retirement Roles | Cricket commentator, mentor, and actor |
| Famous For | Hat-trick in Test cricket, 2007 T20 World Cup win |
Table of Contents
Irfan Pathan’s Age
As of 2024, Irfan Pathan is 40 years old. Despite stepping away from professional cricket, he remains active in various roles, including coaching, commentary, and entertainment. His enduring relevance underscores his passion for the game and his multifaceted talents.
Early Life and Background
Childhood in Vadodara
Irfan Pathan was born into a modest family in Vadodara. His father, Mehboob Khan, was a muezzin (caretaker of a mosque), and his mother, Samimbanu Pathan, was a homemaker. Irfan and his elder brother, Yusuf Pathan, shared a passion for cricket from a young age.
Despite financial challenges, Irfan’s family supported his aspirations, paving the way for him to join cricket academies and participate in local tournaments. His determination and hard work soon caught the eye of selectors.
Entry into Professional Cricket
Irfan honed his skills at the Moti Bagh Stadium in Vadodara, where his talent for swing bowling became evident. By the age of 19, he was representing India on the international stage.
The Rise of Irfan Pathan
International Debut
Irfan Pathan made his international debut in December 2003 during India’s Test series against Australia in Adelaide. At the age of 19, he showcased his ability to swing the ball prodigiously, even on flat pitches.
Key Highlights of His Career
1. Test Cricket
Irfan’s Test career was marked by memorable performances, including:
- Matches Played: 29
- Runs Scored: 1,105
- Wickets Taken: 100
One of his most notable Test innings was a century against Pakistan in Karachi in 2006, where he also claimed a historic hat-trick in the same series.
2. ODI Cricket
In One-Day Internationals, Irfan excelled as a reliable bowler and a lower-order batsman:
- Matches Played: 120
- Runs Scored: 1,544
- Wickets Taken: 173
His ability to provide breakthroughs in crucial situations made him a go-to bowler for India in limited-overs cricket.
3. T20 Internationals
Irfan Pathan was instrumental in India’s success in the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007:
- Matches Played: 24
- Runs Scored: 172
- Wickets Taken: 28
He was awarded Player of the Match in the final against Pakistan for his all-round performance.
4. Domestic Cricket
Pathan represented Baroda in domestic cricket and also played in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for franchises such as the Kings XI Punjab, Delhi Daredevils, and Sunrisers Hyderabad. His contributions at the domestic level were crucial in nurturing young talent.
Career Milestones
Hat-Trick Against Pakistan (2006)
Irfan Pathan created history by taking a hat-trick in the very first over of the Test match against Pakistan in Karachi. This rare feat remains one of the most celebrated moments in Indian cricket history.
2007 ICC T20 World Cup
In the final against Pakistan, Pathan’s disciplined bowling and crucial runs helped India clinch the trophy. His performance under pressure earned him widespread acclaim.
Emerging Player of the Year (2004)
Recognized by the ICC as the Emerging Player of the Year in 2004, Pathan was hailed as one of the brightest young talents in world cricket.
Challenges and Setbacks
Despite his stellar achievements, Irfan Pathan faced several challenges during his career:
- Injuries: Frequent injuries hampered his ability to bowl at full pace.
- Loss of Form: A dip in bowling form saw him struggle to retain his spot in the national team.
- Transition to All-Rounder: While focusing on improving his batting, Pathan’s bowling became less effective, which affected his career longevity.
Retirement and Beyond
Announcement of Retirement
Irfan Pathan announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on January 4, 2020, marking the end of a glorious era. Despite this, his connection to the game remains strong.
Post-Retirement Roles
- Commentary and Analysis: Pathan has established himself as a popular cricket commentator and analyst, offering deep insights into the game.
- Coaching: He has worked as a mentor for various cricket teams, including the Jammu and Kashmir state team, where he helped nurture young talent.
- Acting: Irfan ventured into acting, debuting in a Tamil movie, showcasing his versatility.
Personal Life
Marriage and Family
Irfan Pathan married Safa Baig, a Saudi Arabian model, in 2016. The couple has a son, Imran Khan Pathan, born in 2017. Irfan’s family plays a central role in his life, and he often shares glimpses of his personal life on social media.
Relationship with Yusuf Pathan
The Pathan brothers share a close bond, often credited for each other’s success. Both have represented India and contributed significantly to the team’s success.
Net Worth and Assets
Irfan Pathan’s estimated net worth is $7–8 million, derived from his cricketing career, endorsements, and post-retirement ventures. His financial success underscores his popularity and contributions to the sport.
Legacy of Irfan Pathan
Inspiration for Young Cricketers
Irfan Pathan’s journey from a small-town boy to an international cricketing star inspires countless aspiring cricketers. His dedication and work ethic serve as a testament to the rewards of perseverance.
Contributions to Indian Cricket
Pathan’s ability to swing the ball and his all-round performances have cemented his place as one of the finest all-rounders in Indian cricket history.
Interesting Facts About Irfan Pathan
- Young Kapil Dev Comparison: Early in his career, Pathan was often compared to Kapil Dev for his all-round abilities.
- Hat-Trick Feat: He remains the only bowler to claim a hat-trick in the opening over of a Test match.
- Multi-Talented: Besides cricket, Pathan has explored acting and mentoring roles.
Conclusion
Irfan Pathan’s age may now place him among cricketing veterans, but his influence on the game remains timeless. From his remarkable achievements on the field to his inspiring journey off it, Pathan continues to be a beacon of hope and determination. His legacy is a reminder that talent, combined with hard work, can overcome even the greatest challenges.
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