'14 days of great learning' - Irfan Pathan spends valuable time with young cricketers at NCA camp ahead of U19 World Cup

Former India international Irfan Pathan shared glimpses of him spending time with young cricketers in the National Cricket Academy (NCA), who are set to represent the Men in Blue in the upcoming U19 World Cup. The 38-year-old thanked his former teammate VVS Laxman, who’s currently heading NCA, and also appreciated Troy Cooley and Rajib Datta for sharing valuable advice with them during the 14-day camp.

Notably, India won the last edition of the U19 World Cup and thus, there will be pressure to defend the title this time around as well. In order to prepare well, Pathan was called to train the youngsters who eventually mentioned that he had a great time learning and sharing knowledge.

“I personally had a wonderful time during these 14 days of great learning and sharing cricketing knowledge at the National cricket academy. Thank you VVS Laxman bhai for having me n my colleagues with the u-19 cricketers who are preparing for the upcoming World Cup. Special Thanks to Troy Cooley and our very own Rajib Datta for spending so much time with us with your vast knowledge,” Pathan tweeted on Monday.

I Personally had a wonderful time during these 14 days of great learning and sharing cricketing knowledge at the National cricket academy. Thank you @VVSLaxman281 bhai for having me n my colleagues with the u-19 cricketers who are preparing for the upcoming World Cup. Special… pic.twitter.com/4BvSz0mTTZ

— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) July 3, 2023

Significantly, Pathan last played his last international match in 2012 against South Africa. He represented India in 29 Test matches, picking up 100 wickets while in the 50-over format, the left-arm seamer picked up 173 wickets in 120 matches and was also part of the national team that won the Champions Trophy in 2013. Other than that, he also won the T20 World Cup in 2007 and was a vital member of the Indian team that won the Commonwealth Bank series in 2008.

Currently, Pathan is seen plying his trade in various leagues for retired cricketers like Road Safety, and Legends League Cricket among a few others. He also works as a professional commentator and was associated with Star Sports during Indian Premier League, and T20 World Cup 2022 among many other major tournaments.