Yusuf Pathan IPL century: Yusuf Pathan’s Early Life and Career

Born in Baroda, Gujarat on November 17, 1982, Yusuf Pathan was one of the Pathan brothers who made their mark in Indian cricket. Yusuf Pathan’s elder brother, Irfan Pathan, was a left-arm fast bowler who played for India in all three formats of the game.

Yusuf Pathan began his cricket career as a bowler, but it was his big-hitting abilities that brought him to the limelight. He made his debut for Baroda in the 2001-02 domestic season and was part of the Indian team that won the 2007 ICC World Twenty20 in South Africa.

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Yusuf Pathan in IPL

Yusuf Pathan’s entry into IPL came in the inaugural season in 2008 when he was bought by the Rajasthan Royals for a price of $475,000. He played a crucial role in the Royals’ title-winning campaign in the first season and continued to be a vital member of the side in the following seasons.

Yusuf Pathan’s century against Mumbai Indians in the 2010 season remains one of the highlights of his IPL career. Batting at number three, Pathan walked in after the early departure of Michael Lumb and took the attack to the Mumbai Indians bowlers.

Yusuf Pathan IPL Century against Mumbai Indians

Chasing a mammoth target of 213, Yusuf Pathan’s explosive batting was the only hope for the Rajasthan Royals. Pathan began his innings cautiously but soon started unleashing his trademark big shots. The Mumbai Indians bowlers had no answer to his power-hitting as he smashed them all over the park.

Pathan’s century came off just 37 balls, which included nine fours and eight sixes. His innings remained the fastest century in the history of IPL, a record that stood for three years until Chris Gayle broke it in 2013. Pathan’s century helped the Rajasthan Royals get close to the target, but they eventually fell short by just four runs.

Yusuf Pathan’s Legacy

Yusuf Pathan’s century against Mumbai Indians remains one of the most memorable innings in IPL history. It showcased his incredible hitting abilities and made him a household name in Indian cricket.

Pathan continued to be a valuable member of the Rajasthan Royals side in the following seasons before moving to Kolkata Knight Riders in 2011. He played a key role in KKR’s title-winning campaigns in 2012 and 2014, with his big-hitting abilities and handy off-spin bowling.

Yusuf Pathan retired from all forms of cricket in 2021 after a career spanning nearly two decades. He played 174 matches in IPL and scored 3204 runs at an average of 29.12 and a strike rate of 142.97. He also picked up 42 wickets with his off-spin bowling.

Pathan’s legacy extends beyond his big-hitting abilities. He was known for his never-say-die attitude and his ability to perform under pressure. His century against Mumbai Indians is a testament to his fighting spirit and his never-give-up attitude.

Conclusion

Yusuf Pathan’s century against Mumbai Indians will always be remembered as one of the greatest innings in IPL history. It showcased his incredible hitting abilities and made him a household name in Indian cricket. Pathan’s legacy extends beyond his big-hitting abilities, and his never-say-die attitude and fighting spirit will always be an inspiration for young cricketers. As Yusuf Pathan hangs up his boots, Indian cricket fans will always remember him as a fearless batsman and a true warrior on the field.

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