Hyderabad, Feb. 3: They are more than just siblings and can humble any opposition when on song. The Pathan brothers — Irfan and Yusuf — shone simultaneously for the West Zone at the ongoing Duleep Trophy final against South Zone even though West are in some strife.
While Irfan bagged his 14th five-wicket haul in first class cricket and scalped his 300th victim on the second day morning, elder brother Yusuf stroked his way to a scintillating 76-ball 108. Irfan was understandably satisfied with his show and said, "Every wicket that you get brings joy. It’s a tournament final and to perform in a big match is always satisfying."
Asked whether his time out from the Indian side had made him stronger, the 25-year-old said, "Whether with the national team or with the local side, I have given my best in every game. My faith in God has helped me stay grounded and I am sure if I get a call back to the national side, you will get nothing but the best from me."
The elder Pathan too seemed happy with his century when he said, "I enjoyed my innings and it came at the right moment. The game is very much open and if Irfan fires tomorrow, we can be back in contention."
Asked if the blistering knock was a wake up call for the selectors, Yusuf said, "I don’t play to make any statements. I go out there to perform and by God’s grace, it happened. I have been hitting the ball and to get a century feels good." On his brother’s knock, Irfan said, "Yusuf’s talent was never in doubt and he has proved it time and again. His innings was a treat to watch. We were under pressure when he went in and he scored valuable runs in the middle."
Age Correspondent