“Failing for 3-4 years and still getting chances” – Irfan Pathan’s Indirect Attack at Virat Kohli

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has come out in support of head coach Gautam Gambhir, praising him for prioritising “team culture” over “star culture” in Indian cricket.

Pathan, speaking in an interview with Lallantop, lauded Gambhir for his intent to put the team above individual reputations, a move that he feels was long overdue.

“Mere liye team culture bahut important hai. Gautam Gambhir jo hai na wahaan pe, jab tak wo apni coaching journey khatam karenge na, wo team culture le ke aayenge puri tarah se,” Pathan said.

The former pacer pointed out that Indian cricket has often been guilty of giving prolonged opportunities to underperforming players just because of their stature.

“Humare yahaan ek banda fail hue ja raha hai 3, 4, 5 saal se magar usko chance de do kyunki wo bahut bada player hai. Kahi toh aapko full stop lagana padega na,” he said, hinting that this ‘star culture’ needs to be put to an end.

Pathan also praised the role of chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar, highlighting how the partnership between Gambhir and Agarkar is bringing much-needed balance to Indian cricket.

“Dusra jinka naam nahi aata, wo banda abada jabardast hai Indian cricket ke liye, chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar,” Pathan remarked.

According to him, the alignment between the head coach and selectors is key to India’s success.

“Aaj ek koi bhi decision hota hai na, wo sirf coach nahi le sakta, ek koi bhi decision selector nahi le sakta. Do log agar mil jaaye, jo majboot ho wo fir sahi direction mey jaate hai. Mujhe lagta hai ye dono sahi direction me ja rahe hai… team culture ko le kar,” Pathan added.

With Gambhir at the helm and Agarkar heading the selection committee, Pathan believes Indian cricket is slowly moving towards a merit-based system where performance takes precedence over name value.