Irfan Pathan applies for NOC; Could play for a new domestic team

Out-of-favour Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has decided to represent a new domestic team and has asked for a No Objection Certificate from the Baroda Cricket Association (BCA), thanks to the cold war between him and the association.

The 33-year old Indian international, who was a part of the Baroda side for the last 17 years, was named the captain and the mentor of the team at the start of the season. He started the season by scoring a defiant 80 and after just two matches, he was dropped from the Ranji Trophy side. Adding to this, he was not even picked in Baroda's squad for the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali trophy. The reason for the snub is not yet known and Pathan has said that he will speak about this issue only after he receives the NOC.

The Indian Express has possession of the email he sent to BCA a few days ago.

"I have made this decision keeping in mind the current scenario and the current plans of the BCA with regard to my position in the team. I feel that my professional services can be utilised in a better manner and to the best of my abilities with a different team at this stage of my career. I write this email with humble gratitude toward the BCA for giving me the opportunity to serve as a player for over 17 years. I am and always will be extremely grateful for this opportunity. I can confidently say that these past 17 years playing for BCA have been among the most memorable years of my career," Pathan mentioned in the mail.

Pathan made his debut for Baroda as a 16-year-old in the 2000/01 season and has played 113 matches (includes his matches for Baroda, India, India A and West Zone) in which he has scored 496 runs at 30 and picked up 365 wickets at 28.64.

Irfan and BCA have been at loggerheads for quite some time now and Pathan has been in and out of the side due to this.