Pathan returns from South Africa; to play in Ranji Trophy for Baroda

Mumbai, Dec 29 (UNI) India's pace bolwer Irfan Pathan returned here at the Chhatrapati Shivaji International terminus from South Africa in the early hours today.

Pathan, who has been struggling with his bowling form and was dropped from the first two Tests against South Africa, was sent back so that he could regain his form and rhythm by playing for Baroda in the Ranji Trophy.

Pathan is scheduled to play in Baroda's remaining Group 'A' Ranji Trophy Elite division matches, to be held from January 2 to 5 and January 10 to 13, 2007.

Pathan is the first Indian cricketer to have been sent home mid-way through a tour for non-performance. The Baroda seamer, however, did not speak to the mediapersons.

UNI GS KU AY DS1445