A Shocking Exclusion from IPL 2025 Commentary Panel
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is not just about the players on the field; the commentators also play a significant role in enhancing the excitement of the matches. However, a major surprise in the IPL 2025 commentary panel has left fans in shock—former all-rounder Irfan Pathan has been dropped from the panel. Having been a familiar voice in major cricket tournaments over the past few years, Pathan’s absence has led to speculation and heated debates. The big question remains—why was Irfan Pathan removed from the IPL 2025 commentary panel?
Controversy Behind Irfan Pathan’s Exit
According to reliable media reports, the decision to exclude Irfan Pathan from the commentary panel stems from his critical remarks against certain Indian players. Several complaints were reportedly lodged against him by players who claimed that Pathan had made personal remarks during his commentary.
During the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Irfan Pathan’s commentary allegedly led to dissatisfaction among some prominent players. One cricketer even went to the extent of blocking Pathan on his phone following the tournament. Sources suggest that his removal is not just a result of these complaints but also due to a perceived personal agenda in his analysis, which did not sit well with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
BCCI’s Stand on Irfan Pathan’s Exclusion
BCCI has previously taken strict actions against commentators whose analysis or opinions have sparked controversies. This is not the first instance where a commentator has been removed following players’ complaints—Sanjay Manjrekar was also taken off the panel in the past due to similar reasons. However, he eventually made a comeback after a few years.
Irfan Pathan’s removal appears to be part of the same pattern. Sources indicate that his vocal opinions and critiques might have created tension within the cricketing circuit, leading to his ousting from the IPL 2025 commentary team.
Complete List of Commentators for IPL 2025
National Feed Commentators
- Aakash Chopra
- Sanjay Manjrekar
- Michael Clarke
- Sunil Gavaskar
- Navjot Singh Sidhu
- Matthew Hayden
- Mark Boucher
- Shikhar Dhawan
- Harbhajan Singh
- Anil Kumble
- Suresh Raina
- RP Singh
- Shane Watson
- Sanjay Bangar
- Varun Aaron
- Pragyan Ojha
- Ajay Jadeja
- Virender Sehwag
- Kane Williamson
- AB de Villiers
- Aaron Finch
- Robin Uthappa
- Ambati Rayudu
- Mohammad Kaif
- Piyush Chawla
World Feed Commentators
- Eoin Morgan
- Shane Watson
- Michael Clarke
- Graeme Smith
- Harsha Bhogle
- Nick Knight
- Danny Morrison
- Ian Bishop
- Alan Wilkins
- Darren Ganga
- Natalie Germanos
- Ravi Shastri
- Sunil Gavaskar
- Matthew Hayden
- Deep Dasgupta
- Aaron Finch
- Varun Aaron
- Simon Doull
- Pommie Mbangwa
- Anjum Chopra
- Katie Martin
- WV Raman
- Murali Karthik
Fan Reactions to Irfan Pathan’s Removal
Irfan Pathan has a strong fan following, and his removal from the commentary panel has triggered significant reactions on social media. Fans have expressed disappointment over his exclusion, with many questioning whether player influence played a role in his removal. Some fans believe that Pathan’s insights as a former all-rounder provided valuable analysis, and his absence will be a loss for IPL viewers.
On the other hand, some argue that commentators should maintain a neutral stance and avoid personal criticisms of players. If the allegations of personal attacks hold true, then BCCI’s decision aligns with maintaining professionalism in IPL commentary.
Will Irfan Pathan Make a Comeback?
While Pathan’s absence from the IPL 2025 commentary panel is confirmed, his return cannot be ruled out. If history is any indicator, commentators like Sanjay Manjrekar, who was previously dropped, managed to make a comeback. If Irfan Pathan addresses the concerns raised against him and mends relationships within the cricketing fraternity, there is a chance that he may return in future editions of IPL.
For now, IPL 2025 will move forward with an impressive lineup of commentators. Whether Irfan Pathan’s absence will impact the viewership experience or not remains to be seen.
