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Amit Mishra has recently discussed his public disagreement with former teammate Irfan Pathan, which occurred in 2022. The issue began when Pathan posted a cryptic message on social media, alluding to the political climate in India. In his post, the former allrounder expressed his belief in India’s potential greatness, but hinted at underlying concerns.
Pathan’s message sparked speculation, particularly amidst a backdrop of communal tensions and incidents of violence in various parts of the country.
Amit Mishra noticed the post and was quick to reply to it. Hitting back at Pathan, he had written: “My country, my beautiful country, has the potential to be the greatest country on earth…..only if some people realise that our constitution is the first book to be followed.”
Later, Pathan had hit back at his former India teammate by posting a copy of the preamble of the Indian Constitution and writing: “Always followed this and I urge each citizen of our beautiful country to follow this. Please read and re-read…”
Amit Mishra was recently asked about the controversy when he appeared on Shubhankar Mishra podcast. Recalling the incident, the spinner said that he still stands by his statement, saying: “It was the first book to be followed. Yes, that’s right. Although I received a lot of abuses, I also received a lot of love, much more than those abuses.”
“But I spoke from the heart. If you follow the rules in ten other countries you visit, why not in India? India is also a country with rules and regulations; follow them. What’s the problem? If you have a problem, leave,” he added.
Amit Mishra on meeting with Irfan Pathan
Amit Mishra disclosed that he encountered Irfan Pathan during his commentary engagements and even exchanged handshakes with him. When asked about the nature of their interaction, Mishra subtly indicated that their relationship had never been particularly warm.
“I used to shake hands with him. I never hugged him. I maintain my distance. I keep relationships as they are. I love my close friends. The ones who are commercial, are commercial. The close ones are close,” said Amit Mishra.
Mishra and Pathan were teammates for Team India on numerous occasions. Mishra represented India in 22 Tests, 36 ODIs, and 10 T20Is, whereas Pathan’s international career spanned 29 Tests, 120 ODIs, and 24 T20Is before his retirement from cricket. Currently, Pathan has moved on from playing, while Mishra recently participated in the IPL earlier this year. Both former cricketers are also actively engaged in commentary roles, contributing their expertise to the sport.
