Irfan Pathan: ‘I think I make the best tea in the world’

India fast bowler Irfan Pathan is quite active on social media. He, however, says it is important not to get addicted to it.

Irfan Pathan... “I want to explore India as a tourist. There are quite a few places I want to travel to.”

Just as he does with his bowling, Irfan Pathan loves to keep things simple. While he is quite active on social media, the fast bowler prefers spending quality time with his family. In a brief chat with Sportstar, Irfan speaks on a range of topics.

Excerpts:

Someone you would go to when you are in doubt.

Bhai (Yusuf Pathan).

The opposition you loved playing against the most.

Pakistan and Australia.

How do you unwind?

I watch films, or may be, listen to music. The best way to unwind, however, is by spending time with the family.

One thing that people don’t know about you.

There are a few things which only my family know. Let them be that way. (Laughs)

The venues you enjoyed playing at.

Mohali, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru and Mumbai. I love the way fans cheer in Chennai.

Your sporting idol.

Muhammad Ali.

Favourite movie.

Three Idiots, Hera Pheri and Ali.

Favourite song.

It changes with time. But I normally like listening to Atif Aslam and Arijit Singh.

Favourite holiday destination.

Wayanad, Alleppy and Mararikulam in Kerala. There are also a few places in Karnataka and Himachal Pradesh. Though I haven’t explored Kashmir, I want to do that.

One wish…

I want to explore India as a tourist. There are quite a few places I want to travel to. I like the whole idea of travelling. New Zealand and Australia are two countries I like going to.

Your biggest off-the-field accomplishment.

Being able to provide education to some hundred students and seeing some of them getting jobs.

Your secret talent.

I am a good cook. I think I make the world’s best tea. (Laughs)

Your favourite pastime.

I am into social media. I love keeping a tab on what’s happening around. But it is also important to ensure that you don’t get addicted to social media.

Any favourite book?

I am not a big reader. I do read, but there is no favourite book as such.

Your secret crush.

Even if there is anyone, I won’t reveal. I am a married man now. (Laughs)

Prankster in the team from whom you would keep away.

I am not scared of anyone. I enjoy hanging out with everyone, and I am not afraid of any pranks.