Irfan Pathan Finally Reveals Which Player Cost Him His Commentary Role
Irfan Pathan opens up on IPL commentary exit, denies bias against Hardik Pandya, says criticism is part of his job.
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has spoken openly about his sudden exit from the IPL 2025 commentary panel. In a candid chat with TheLallantop, Pathan suggested that his criticism of Hardik Pandya during Mumbai Indians’ campaign as captain might have played a role in his removal.
Pathan stressed that his analysis was never personal. “If I’m criticising you in 7 matches out of 14, I’m still being lenient. That is our job as broadcasters,” he said, adding that honest feedback is part of commentary.
‘I always supported Baroda players’
The former cricketer firmly denied any rivalry with Pandya or other Baroda players. He pointed out that he and his brother Yusuf had always helped younger talents like Deepak Hooda, Krunal Pandya and Hardik Pandya with advice, sponsorships, and opportunities.
Pathan recalled how, back in 2012, he recommended Hardik to Sunrisers Hyderabad. “VVS Laxman admitted on Star Sports that he was at fault for not listening to me. If he had picked him then, Hardik would have played for Hyderabad,” he revealed.
Pathan on Defending Hardik
Interestingly, Pathan reminded that he had defended Hardik publicly when the all-rounder faced a hostile reception from Mumbai Indians fans in 2024, after Rohit Sharma was replaced as captain. He made it clear that his criticism was always about cricketing performance, never personal attacks.
“There is nothing wrong in criticising a player. Even legends like Gavaskar and Tendulkar faced it. But I’m against derogatory words being used. No one is bigger than the game,” Pathan said.
