New Delhi — In a striking turn of events, former Indian cricketer and commentator Irfan Pathan has transformed a professional setback into a digital success story. Excluded from the IPL 2025 official commentary panel, the seasoned left-arm pacer has swiftly pivoted to content creation on YouTube—a move that is now making headlines both for its impact and its earnings.
📉 Commentary Exit, 📈 YouTube Entry
Sources close to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) hinted that Pathan’s exclusion stemmed from what some players perceived as “overcritical” commentary. While Pathan has chosen not to make any public statements against the board or fellow cricketers, his actions have spoken louder than words.
On March 22, 2025, just days before IPL season kicked off, Irfan Pathan launched his YouTube channel—a platform now buzzing with pre- and post-match analyses, tactical breakdowns, and honest opinions that mainstream broadcasters often shy away from.
🚀 3 Lakh+ Subscribers and Counting
In just under three weeks, Pathan’s subscriber base has crossed 300,000, with many of his videos trending on sports content charts. Industry insiders estimate that the channel is already generating monthly earnings of ₹2 lakh to ₹3.5 lakh, based on views, ad monetization, and growing brand interest.
Also read: Why Was Irfan Pathan Dropped from the IPL 2025 Commentary Panel? The Truth Revealed
“Pathan has managed to do what many retired athletes struggle with—stay relevant and engaging without needing a broadcaster’s backing,” said Priya Rathi, a digital marketing consultant who works with sports influencers.
🎯 A Direct Line to the Fans
What sets Pathan apart is his ability to speak freely and authentically—something traditional broadcasting often restricts due to corporate filters and brand partnerships. His insights combine the sharpness of a former player with the accessibility of a creator.
In contrast to generic studio discussions, Pathan’s commentary feels more personal and tactical, giving fans a ringside view into the intricacies of the sport.
💸 More Than Money: A New Career Blueprint for Athletes
Pathan’s success mirrors a growing global trend where former athletes are opting to become independent media voices. From Ravichandran Ashwin’s Instagram Reels to Michael Vaughan’s podcasts, athletes are embracing digital as the new arena for influence.
For Pathan, YouTube is not just a platform—it’s a stage where he controls the narrative.
⚡ Controversy Meets Opportunity
The earnings controversy took center stage when fan speculation around Pathan’s monetization stats began circulating online. With no official response from Pathan, reports claim he is also in talks with sports brands and fantasy leagues for collaborative campaigns, potentially boosting his income significantly.
And while he hasn’t officially announced any commercial partnerships yet, the buzz suggests he’s on track to becoming one of the most bankable cricket creators in India.
📌 Final Word
In the age of content-driven engagement, Irfan Pathan is showing how sports professionals can carve a sustainable, independent career outside of the traditional cricketing ecosystem. Whether or not he returns to mainstream commentary, one thing is clear: Pathan’s innings is far from over.
He’s just switched formats—and so far, he’s batting a hundred.
