Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan celebrates his 40th birthday on Sunday. From swinging the ball prodigiously to playing vital knocks, Pathan was one of India’s most versatile cricketers during his time with an illustrious career that saw him shine with both bat and ball.
On his special day, we revisit his top four iconic moments that made him a fan favourite.
Hat-trick against Pakistan in 2006
Arguably the most memorable moment of Pathan’s career came in the Karachi Test against arch-rivals Pakistan in 2006, when he became the first Indian bowler to take a hat-trick in the opening over of a Test match. Pathan stunned the Pakistani batting lineup by dismissing Salman Butt, Younis Khan, and Mohammad Yousuf in consecutive deliveries, etching his name into the history books.
Man of the Match in the 2007 T20 World Cup final
Pathan played a pivotal role in India’s victory in the inaugural ICC T20 World Cup in 2007, especially in the final against Pakistan. His match-winning spell of 3 for 16 in the high-pressure final helped India clinch the trophy. Pathan’s remarkable bowling under pressure earned him the Man of the Match award, contributing significantly to India’s historic triumph in the tournament.
Match-winning all-round show in the Perth Test, 2008
In one of the toughest assignments for any cricketer – an overseas Test in Australia – Pathan produced a stellar all-round performance in Perth in 2008. He took 5 wickets in the match and also scored 46 vital runs in the second innings, helping India secure a rare victory on Australian soil. His ability to make an impact with both bat and ball was on full display, earning him the Man of the Match award in India’s famous win at the WACA.
Maiden Test century in 2007
Pathan was not just a bowler but a more than capable batsman. In the Bangalore Test against Pakistan in 2007, he scored his maiden and only Test century, batting at No. 8. His knock of 102 was a testament to his batting skills and versatility, proving he could contribute with the bat at crucial moments. It remains one of the highlights of his Test career.
As Irfan Pathan turns 40, his contributions to Indian cricket are fondly remembered. Whether it was his lethal swing bowling, his crucial knocks with the bat, or his never-say-die spirit, Pathan remains a beloved figure in Indian cricket.
