Fully fit Irfan Pathan raring to go

Irfan Pathan

Indian fast bowler Irfan Pathan has said that he hopes to perform well in the upcoming Vijay Hazare trophy for Baroda after having regained full fitness. Baroda will face Mumbai in the first game of the tournament, which is scheduled to begin on February 27.

“I have been working with my physio on good programmes. I am fit and played three Ranji matches for Baroda this season. I pray to God that I stay fit in the upcoming domestic one-day matches,” Pathan said.

He further said that the conferring of Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar with the Bharat Ratna can inspire the sports personalities to reach greater heights.

“This (awarding Bharat Ratna to Tendulkar) will inspire and motivate rest of the sportspersons to achieve India’s highest civilian award,” the all-rounder said.

Indian President Pranab Mukherjee will confer Tendulkar with the country’s highest civilian award at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on February 4, alongside Professor C N R Rao.

“How much ever you cherish Sachin’s achievements, it is too less a praise,” he added.

Syed Kirmani, the retired Indian wicket-keeper who was also present at the promotional event, said that it is a moment that every sportsman has to cherish.

“I wish Sachin and rest of the sports persons, who are doing yeomen service to their country, the very best of luck,” Kirmani said.