‘I am a bowler who can also bat. I am not an all-rounder yet’

After being sent back from South Africa in the middle of the series to find his form and rhythm back in the Ranji Trophy, Irfan Pathan did all that was needed to trace his way into the team once again.

In three matches, where he bowled 109 overs, Pathan picked up 15 wickets at an average of 23.6 and an economy rate of 3.86. Baroda are out of the Ranji Trophy, but Pathan, after the lay-off from international cricket, is now back in the Indian team.

He will play his first comeback game in Vadodara, his home town, and given the brief rest he's had in the last one month, Pathan says he's looking forward to the return like never before. Excerpts:

Is it the best thing to happen, now that you're starting fresh at home?

Starting from home is always good. I've played a lot of my Cricket here (in Baroda). Everything happens with a reason and therefore, I feel, my coming back here, spending a month or so and then returning to the team, afresh, is good. I have worked very hard during this time and have also, undoubtedly, felt at home. The Ranji matches gave me the required rest as well as some good bowling practice. I am upbeat about the way things have gone and am looking forward to my next game.

How have the last couple of months been for you?

Honestly, not playing for India hurts. But I should add here that I really enjoyed playing for Baroda and that's always been the case for me. Cricket aside, coming back home and getting to spend time with my parents, my brother, sister and close friends was the best thing to happen. Staying at home, eating food with my family the way we usually do, driving through the lanes of Baroda, catching up with friends, I enjoyed all that. When you are on a tour, you're usually in a hotel, mostly alone and that is always very different. So being at home was a welcome change. I was just very relaxed and wasn't thinking too much about cricket.

From 2003 till now, which is that one time when you've had the opportunity to take a back seat, review your own performance, spend time for yourself, and stay relaxed?

... contd.