Former Indian all-rounder, Irfan Pathan reckons that India has the edge over Australia going into the three-match ODI series. Last year, the Aussies defeated the Indian team 3-2 at the latter’s home after going 0-2 down in the series. But Irfan, who pulled the curtains down on his career a few days ago, feels that Indian cricket has improved ahead of Australia in terms of talent and confidence.

In 2019, India did beat the Aussies 2-1 when they toured Down Under. Irfan mentioned that the Aussies had the upper hand in the past, something which can’t be said anymore. As per the southpaw, a lot depends on the nature of pitches dished out by the curators.

Pathan said, “In the past, that wasn’t the case because they were doing really well. We were trying to match that level. I feel that Indian cricket is a notch ahead in terms of talent, in terms of cricket and in terms of confidence. The only thing that will make it equal is the kind of pitches we are going to play in Australia because we do not have experience playing on those hard and bouncy pitches.”

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The upcoming ODIs get underway on Tuesday, January 14 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Rajkot and Bengaluru are the hosts for the last two matches on January 17 and 19 respectively.

Irfan made his international debut against the Aussies in a Test at the Adelaide Oval. The all-rounder dismissed Matthew Hayden as his maiden wicket and he said it to be one his most memorable moments. But his favorite memory happens to be the Test at the WACA in Perth in 2008.

India under the leadership of Anil Kumble, won the game by 21 runs and Irfan has adjudged the Player of the Match. Irfan picked up five wickets and scored 74 runs in the match.

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Recalling the same, Pathan said,“It all started in Australia for me. The most memorable moment was getting my first wicket and helping India win a Test match in Australia after 21 years. Winning the Test in Perth and being named the Man of the Match is also a favorite memory for me.”