Irfan Pathan’s Viral Post Criticising Hardik Pandya Sparks Fan Outrage After Mullanpur Loss

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Irfan Pathan’s comment on Hardik Pandya after India’s 51-run loss to South Africa in the second T20I in Mullanpur sparked a strong reaction from cricket fans. Pathan’s post, which suggested that Hardik’s batting approach failed on a slower pitch, quickly went viral. Supporters felt the former all-rounder unfairly singled out Hardik despite the entire batting line-up collapsing during a steep chase of 213.

Hardik Pandya’s Contrasting Performances Intensify The Debate


Hardik entered the chase at 67-4 and tried to stabilize the innings, but his 20 off 23 balls could not shift the momentum. Fans were quick to highlight that Hardik had rescued India in similar circumstances just one match earlier. 

He delivered a stunning 59 off 28 on a tricky Cuttack surface and also picked a wicket, earning the Player of the Match award as India secured a dominant 101-run win.

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Pathan’s Viral Post And Growing Fan Outrage


Pathan wrote, “On a surface that offered something for the bowlers, his stand-and-deliver style didn’t click, because when the pitch lacks pace or bounce, you’ve got to move your feet.” The remark frustrated many supporters, who argued that the conditions in Cuttack were tougher. Doubtful reactions from some social media users also came regarding the lack of criticism directed towards the other poor-performing batsmen, such as Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill.

A History Of Similar Criticism Adds To The Tension


This incident brought back the discussion of Pathan's commentary on Hardik during the IPL 2024. Pathan also made it clear before that he had "no personal issue" with Hardik and mentioned that the broadcasters should always be honest in their analysis of the players. 

He said, “If I’m criticizing you in 7 matches out of 14, I’m still being lenient. That is our job as broadcasters.” His remarks resurfaced as fans debated whether his latest post was justified.

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Conclusion: Why The Controversy Matters Now


The trade-off between Hardik and his fluctuating form was one of the defining factors to arouse heated reactions from the very beginning. The progression of the series will witness intense scrutiny over the performances of Hardik and his expert commentaries. This could, in turn, shape the whole discussion revolving around the Indian T20I preparation.