‘We can still make it to the semis’

Neglected for his inconsistent performances and nagging injuries,Irfan Pathan hardly seemed the one who had made a superb debut against Australia seven years back. But coming back to fitness and an inspired performance in the Ranji Trophy for his team Baroda where he was one of the top performer both in batting and bowling,and crucial contributions for the Kings XI Punjab in the on-going IPL,the winds are once again blowing in his favour and he is once again into the lime-light. Many claimed him to be a hot contender as an all-rounder for the Indian team for the upcoming ICC Twenty20 World Cup starting from April 30. However,the 25-year-old was not disappointed when his name did not figure among the probables’ list for the event. “It is definitely a dream to play for one’s country but I am happy I am still playing for Punjab,my home-team Baroda but I definitely dream of playing for India again. I am slowly growing in confidence and I have been bowling and batting well in IPL. There is no doubt that I can make a comeback to the national team,” said Irfan in a confident voice.

Despite taking part in fewer domestic matches this season,Irfan still managed to hit 397 runs and took 22 wickets in five Ranji matches. And with a dream-run in the IPL,he hopes that he can get back into rhythm soon. “There are lots of expectations from the people and I know it is only going to grow. I am in good touch right now and I just want to keep playing. I had played only few matches in domestic season but I hope to get back into the groove soon through IPL,” said the south-paw.

Though the Punjab outfit is languishing at the bottom of the table,Irfan hopes they can turn the tide if they perform well in the upcoming matches. “In this season,things have not worked out as we had expected. We still have nine matches and if we manage to win six out of those then we can make it to the semis. We will make sure we do well in the next nine matches,” Irfan,one of the consistent performers for the Punjab team apart from Ravi Bopara,said.

Admitting that some of the matches were close,Irfan said that the team could do better with some improved fielding. “The first three matches could have gone anywhere as it went till the last over but yes we definitely need to perform better. There have been dropped catches and we need to work better on our fielding,” Pathan said on the eve of their match against Kolkata Knight Riders.