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Mohali: Rs56 million (Dh4.8 million) is the amount the two Pathan brothers - Irfan and Yousuf - will be earning from the Indian Premier League (IPL)!
But the financial windfall has not taken them over the moon. Their feet are rooted firmly on the ground as they both are aware of the fact that they need to keep working hard for the length of this arduous tournament. The brothers were quite candid in their observations on each other. Following are excerpts.
Irfan on Yousuf Pathan ...
I think I am really lucky. Yousuf is a better cricketer than me, I have no doubts in my mind. And I'm not saying this because he is my brother. This is an honest observation.
Yousuf on Irfan ...
He played at the international level before me and that made him mentally tougher than me. He is aware of the nuances of international cricket. Five years of experience have made him better. He is the last man to leave the battlefield. His never-say-die attitude is exceptional.
Why Irfan believes Yousuf is better than him ...
He is a very good batsman, quite aggressive and a very smart bowler. Add to that his athleticism on the field and you get a versatile cricketer. Mentally, he is strong and has the ability to change the course of a match single-handed.
Why Yousuf thinks Irfan is better than him ...
Irfan's biggest asset is his passion about the game. Any day, any time, you ask him for a net session and he will be there. He is a good thinker, too. I am happy to get his tips regularly. Yes, I am older than him, but I still need his tips.
Irfan on their dream of playing for the nation together ...
Yes, we both had cherished the dream of playing for the nation and it started when we used to play galli (back street) cricket in our muhalla (neighbourhood). When we turned out together for the country for the first time, in the Twenty20 World Cup, our childhood dream had finally been realised.
Irfan on how he benefited by Yousuf ...
I always knew how good a batsman he was. Even in our childhood days, I just could not get him out even after continuously bowling at him for hours. He was my inspiration, too. His words have always been a great help for me. He was the one who taught me how to hit a six. I also changed my grip on his advice. He had advised me to use my feet and lift the ball cleanly. He has played a great role in my success in international cricket.
Yousuf on Shane Warne, his captain in Rajasthan Royals team ...
A good captain should be able to think two overs ahead of him, they say. And Shane Warne is just that. When you are playing with him, he never carries that aura about himself as to how great a cricketer he used to be during his international career. He never tries to show off and is always eager to share with you every trick he has up his sleeve. Not just a coach or captain, he is our friend and guide too.
Yousuf on not being picked for the Indian national team ...
My motto is to keep working hard. I know I have to perform every time I go out there and I'm trying to do just that. I know if I continue to do well in every match, my turn will certainly come some day. I believe in destiny.
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