Deadly Duo- Pathan Bros!!

As they say its all in the family, this time it was a dream come true for Mehmood Khan Pathan. Yes both his son playing for the nation and in the cracking form that they snatched victory from the jaws of the Lankan’s was commendable.

It was Yusuf who started off with his exploits in the bowling.

And while he came to the crease to bat, there was enough pressure on him. Attack is the best thing he knows as he smacked Bhandara all over the park. At the other end, he was joined by his younger brother Irfan. Young Pathan justified the tag of All-rounder given to him. The Pathan brothers applied themselves and played sensibly. It was Yusuf who kick started while Irfan was rotating the strike. And in the concluding overs, it was Irfan who started to demolish the Lankan’s. The duo clobbered the Lankan’s attack and helped India retain the tag of the T-20 champions as they finally won with 4 balls to spare. Dilhara Fernando was the weakest link in the Sri Lankan bowling attack and wonder what was going in the mind of Dilshan as he could have given one more over to Sanath Jayasurya who was bowling a tight line on the other end.

Suddenly with the Pathan Bros striking together, we realized that India bat really deep and we have good finishers in some players.

I (Wags) have the privilege of meeting the Pathan brothers. It was in March 2004, while Irfan had just returned from his Down under and Pakistan tour where he became the super star. That time, Yusuf was playing only at the domestic level. He was standing on the gates of the Mosque where they used to live and would not let mob enter to meet Irfan. Some how I sneaked in at the night at 12 and finally met Irfan Pathan and congratulated him and guess what?

I have treasured the Cricket Ball with Irfan Pathan’ signature with me.

Kudos to the rising star Yusuf Pathan who was given the man of the match award and the Duo have loads of opportunities to exhibit their exploits both with the bat and ball.