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ShareBARODA: The unexpected recall of Irfan Pathan from the Indian tour in South Africa has evoked mixed reactions in his hometown. While Kiran More, a former selection committee chairman, has welcomed the decision, Baroda Ranji coach Ashok Mankad has blasted the Indian team management and the selection committee chairman Dilip Vengsarkar for sending back Pathan, who was the golden boy of Indian cricket not very long ago.
"It is good for Irfan. It is good to play cricket at home than carry drinks abroad. Irfan is very much in the reckoning for the World Cup. His usefulness for the Indian team cannot be questioned. I've had a word with Vengsarkar," said More.
Ashok Mankad said it is an insult and humiliation for the young all-rounder. "I'm very unhappy and disappointed with the decision. But we've two more matches left in the Ranji league and if the Baroda Cricket Association wants, I'll play him in our team. He is an international, and our team will gain from his presence."
But Nayan Mongia, a former India stumper, felt the decision was wrong. "If they can't take him in the team, they should have kept in the dressing room. The decision will have negative effect on the young all-rounder," said Mongia.
Equally scathing in his criticism was former India opener Anshuman Gaekwad, who said the goal post is being shifted selectively. "Irfan was considered a golden boy of Indian cricket just last year. What has happened in 12 months? Why has he gone awry? Somebody should be held accountable for Irfan's failures. Besides, if they send back Irfan, then why don't release Virender Sehwag too?"
Baroda take on reigning Ranji champions Uttar Pradesh on January 2 at home and Tamil Nadu on January 10 in Chennai.
