Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan experienced a frustrating dismissal due to a mix-up with his brother Yusuf Pathan during a World Championship of Legends (WCL) match against the South Africa Champions. The confusion occurred on the first ball of the 19th over when Irfan lofted a delivery from Dale Steyn. The ball landed safely between two onrushing fielders, prompting the Pathan brothers to attempt a quick couple of runs.
However, while Irfan was keen to go for the second run, Yusuf initially agreed but then hesitated, stopping after taking a few steps forward. This left Irfan stranded in the middle of the pitch. Steyn seized the opportunity, collected the throw, and dislodged the bails, resulting in Irfan’s run-out.
The dismissal left Irfan visibly frustrated, and he expressed his displeasure towards Yusuf. Despite South Africa Champions already securing the match with a total of 210/8, India was battling to keep their semi-final hopes alive.
ALSO READ: Brian Lara Eyes Young Guns Gill & Jaiswal To Break His Untouched 400-Run Record
To qualify for the semi-finals, India needed to score at least 153 runs. Although they lost the match by 54 runs, they managed to achieve the necessary total to advance, thereby ending South Africa’s campaign. The South Africa Champions’ innings was anchored by Jacques Synman and wicketkeeper Richard Levi.
Irfan Pathan aur Yusuf Pathan chilla chilli machate hue.#ChampionsTrophy #irfanpathan #CricketLegend #bcci #clashofcampions pic.twitter.com/gkqjdaR1aY
— M Wasif Irani (@IraniMughal) July 11, 2024
Synman, who had scored an unbeaten 82 against Pakistan in the previous game, continued his excellent form by blasting 73 off 43 balls, which included ten fours and three sixes. Levi added a quickfire 60 off 25 balls, featuring five sixes and five boundaries, ensuring a strong middle-over performance.
Despite a spirited fightback by the Indian bowlers in the death overs, led by Harbhajan Singh’s impressive 4/25, the Proteas posted a formidable total. In response, India’s run chase faltered early, with their openers failing to provide a solid start. By 11.3 overs, the top five Indian batsmen were back in the dugout with only 77 runs on the board.
ALSO READ: Ruturaj Gaikwad Claims He Started ‘Thala for a Reason’ Trend With Cheeky MS Dhoni Tribute
Yusuf Pathan remained unbeaten with 54 off 44 balls, while Irfan contributed 35 off 21 balls. Although they formed a crucial partnership, it was insufficient to reach the target as the required run rate climbed. Looking ahead, the semi-final fixtures are set, with Pakistan Champions facing West Indies Champions in the first semi-final, and Australia taking on India in the second semi-final on Friday.
