Irfan Pathan’s ‘Yorker’ heats up Baroda Cricket Association elections

Vadodara | Gujarat — Just days before voting for the Baroda Cricket Association elections, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has delivered what many are calling a political “yorker” in the cricketing arena of Vadodara. His sharp remarks questioning the functioning of the association have added fresh heat to an already intense electoral battle.

The BCA elections, scheduled for Sunday, have turned into a high-stakes contest between former India wicketkeeper Kiran More’s panel and the group led by Darshan Banker. With rival factions — including the Royal Satyamev Jayate group and the Revival group — locked in a fierce fight, Pathan’s intervention has stirred debate among members and voters.

Expressing concern over what he described as the “declining level” of Baroda cricket, Pathan said the association must introspect. “Baroda has a proud cricketing history. Many players have represented India from here. I am who I am because of Baroda cricket. If the standards are falling, we must ask why,” he said in a video message that has since gone viral in cricket circles.

He questioned the current selection process and alleged that merit is being overlooked. “If someone who has played just six or seven Ranji matches becomes chairman, he may work under influence. But an experienced cricketer can take independent decisions. For years, only those who say ‘yes’ to everything are getting opportunities,” Pathan claimed.

The former all-rounder also pointed out that several coaches from Vadodara are respected internationally — even working with teams like Afghanistan — but do not receive similar recognition at home. “Our coaches are going abroad and delivering results, yet here they don’t get respect. That culture must change,” he said.

Recalling his mentoring stint with Jammu and Kashmir during the 2018-19 season, Pathan said focused planning can transform teams. “Today, players from there are reaching IPL and performing at high levels. I wanted similar structured growth for Baroda,” he added.