Is Pathan's 'Hookah' Dig At Dhoni Valid? Detailed Analysis Of CB Series Performance Explains

Irfan Pathan with MS Dhoni [Source: @7_MSDthala/X]

Recently, an old video of Irfan Pathan hinting at partiality in team selection during MS Dhoni's captaincy stint went viral on social media. The footage instantly grabbed the limelight, with fans discussing both aspects of the story and sharing their opinions on the matter. 

Irfan Pathan-MS Dhoni Hookah Controversy

While speaking to SportsTak, former all-rounder Irfan Pathan revealed shocking inside details from the Indian dressing room, which he was a part of during MS Dhoni's tenure as the captain. 

Pathan stated how Dhoni's contradictory statements before the media left him puzzled during the 2008 Commonwealth Bank Tri-Series in Australia. Pathan, who was a pivotal member of the Indian ODI team back then, indirectly accused the ex-captain of biased selection. 

The former cricketer even went on to say that the legendary skipper preferred players who had a great repertoire with him and allegedly accompanied him to Hookah parties. With fans wondering if Pathan's claims are justified, here's an analysis to shed light on his actual performance in that particular series. 

How Irfan Pathan Performed In 2008 CB Series?

(Irfan Pathan's stats in 2008 CB series)

Inference: Irfan Pathan's ODI career average and strike rate with the ball are 29.72 and 33.84, respectively. This shows that the left-arm seamer's performance in the CB series was certainly below his standards. Furthermore, he averaged 19.67 with the bat while striking at an abysmal rate of 64.84, suggesting how he let the team down with a string of poor outings despite getting regular opportunities. 

Irfan Pathan vs Other Indian Pacers In CB Series: A Statistical Comparison

(Indian pacers in 2008 CB Series)

Inference: Irfan Pathan made his debut back in 2003. So, he was technically India's most experienced fast bowler in the 2008 CB series. However, he was comprehensively outperformed by his younger colleagues, with Ishant Sharma, Pravin Kumar and Sreesanth registering better averages and strike rates than him with the ball. 

It was Pathan's second Australian tour, unlike the other pacers, who were exposed to the conditions for the first time. So, it's fair to say that Pathan, despite his experience, failed to adapt to the Australian conditions, while his colleagues thrived with the ball, making the opponents dance to their tunes. 

Conclusion

We don't know if Irfan Pathan's sensational claims are valid. However, our analysis indicates an undeniable decline in Pathan's bowling prowess by the CB series. So, all we can say is that had he worked on his bowling after being snubbed, he could've attained greater heights as an Indian cricketer. 

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