While all-rounder Yusuf, the elder of the two, managed to keep all the owners on their toes before bagging a rich purse of Rs9.66 crore from Kolkata Knight Riders, Delhi Daredevils bid a cool Rs8.6 crore for Irfan.
While millions of dollars traded hands in Bangalore on Saturday, a few thousand miles away in Vadodara, celebrations were on in full swing. And why not? The Pathan brothers, after all, took home $4 million.
While all-rounder Yusuf, the elder of the two, managed to keep all the owners on their toes before bagging a rich purse of Rs9.66 crore from Kolkata Knight Riders, Delhi Daredevils bid a cool Rs8.6 crore for Irfan.
In fact, Irfan, who didn’t find a place in the probables list for the World Cup, was in big demand on Day One of the auction. Elated, the pacer said the faith shown has boosted his morale.
“It is a great feeling. I was a bit nervous in the morning, but the result came out well. I had not thought of any number. When it comes to an IPL auction, you can’t really expect anything. It always surprises you,” he told DNA.
When asked about his brother Yusuf, Irfan said he was sure his sibling would fetch a good price. “I am happy for Yusuf. I feel he is a wonderful cricketer and a great asset for any team. It is a matter of pride for all of us. My family is happy too and it is a celebration sort at our home,” Irfan said.
The Pathan brothers played for different IPL teams and Irfan was hoping that the two would feature in the same side this season. “It would have taken some pressure off my family. They would have been less confused of who to cheer for,” he joked. “But it is a rare possibility in the IPL as there are so many things involved in the auction, along with the budget limit. But we are professionals and will play against each other competitively,” Irfan added.
The younger Pathan, who last played for India in 2009, said the auction has boosted his morale and he is happy the way he has been acknowledged by the fraternity. “More than the money, I feel it is the recognition that is important. I am happy the way my efforts have been acknowledged, as even Preity (Zinta) said that she missed me in the team. I feel there will be more responsibility on my shoulders now and I will give my best,” he signed off.
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