Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has been notably absent from the commentary panel for IPL 2025, with reports indicating that he was snubbed due to accusations of carrying a “personal agenda” against certain players.
This decision has sparked discussions within the cricketing community as the tournament kicks off.
Reasons for Exclusion
Pathan’s exclusion stems from complaints made by a number of current Indian players who alleged that his commentary often reflected personal biases and judgments.
Sources reveal that one player even went so far as to block Pathan’s number after feeling offended by his remarks during the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
It has been suggested that Pathan’s approach in commentary, which some perceived as critical or biased, did not sit well with the players or the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
An insider mentioned, “It’s been happening for the last two years as he was carrying his personal agendas against certain players, and that didn’t go down well with the system.”
This sentiment reflects a growing concern among players regarding how commentators portray them during matches.
Shift to YouTube
In light of being left out of the IPL commentary lineup, Pathan has turned his focus towards digital platforms.
He recently announced the launch of his YouTube channel titled ‘Seedhi Baat with Irfan Pathan’, encouraging fans to support him in this new venture.
This move marks a significant shift for Pathan as he seeks to maintain his presence in the cricketing discourse outside traditional broadcasting.
Historical Context
Pathan is not alone in facing scrutiny over his commentary style. Former commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has also faced backlash from BCCI for making controversial remarks about players in the past.
This trend highlights a growing sensitivity within the cricketing community regarding how players are discussed in media, particularly in high-stakes formats like the IPL.
