Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan’s didn’t hold back as he took a cheeky swipe at the England team following India’s dominant 150-run victory at Wankhede. The emphatic win not only sealed a 4-1 series triumph for India but also provided the perfect moment for Pathan to subtly respond to England’s earlier remarks.
The Controversy: Harry Brook’s Smog Excuse
The five-match T20I series between India and England wasn’t just about the action on the field—it also had its fair share of off-field drama. The sparks first flew after the opening game at Eden Gardens, where India secured a comfortable seven-wicket victory. England’s vice-captain Harry Brook, however, suggested that the air quality in Kolkata played a role in their struggle against Indian spinner Varun Chakravarthy.
“Chakravarthy is an exceptionally good bowler. “He’s a challenge to spot, and with the smog the other night, it made it even tougher. Hopefully, the air is clearer here, and we’ll be able to see the ball more clearly,” Brook had commented, as reported by Wisden.
His statement didn’t sit well with Indian fans and former cricketers, who saw it as an attempt to downplay India’s bowling performance.
Irfan Pathan’s Perfect Response
Fast forward to the final T20I at Wankhede, where India dismantled England with a commanding performance. Abhishek Sharma stole the show with a breathtaking 135 off just 54 balls, propelling India to a mammoth total of 247/9. England, in response, crumbled under the pressure, bowled out for just 97 in 10.3 overs—handing India a massive 150-run victory.
After the match, Irfan Pathan delivered a witty remark on X, referencing Brook’s earlier excuse:
“The #INDvENG scoreboard was free from smog and hurdles, a flawless performance from Team India. Well played, lads!”
With this comment, Pathan playfully dismissed England’s complaints and emphasized India’s sheer dominance in the series.
India’s Commanding Performance
The final game was a masterclass in aggressive batting and clinical bowling. Abhishek Sharma’s blistering knock was one for the ages, keeping the crowd on the edge of their seats. Meanwhile, the Indian bowlers made light work of England’s batting lineup, wrapping up the game in just 11 overs.
While the series had its fair share of verbal exchanges, India’s on-field brilliance did all the talking in the end. With a 4-1 series triumph, the Men in Blue ensured that any excuses—smog-related or otherwise—held little weight.
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