Pathan lands into controversy

Kolkata:

India pacer Irfan Pathan on Friday landed into a controversy when he got into a verbal duel with the Eden Gardens' pitch curator on being asked to talk to the media outside the playing area.

Pitch curator Prabir Mukherjee objected to Pathan giving interview to scribes inside the playing arena after the third day's play of the Ranji Trophy match between hosts Bengal and Baroda here.

When Mukherjee asked the reporters to move away from the playing arena, Pathan told him that they should be allowed to perform their duties.

Mukherjee replied that it was his duty to see that nothing happens in the playing arena.

As the heated exchange of words continued, Baroda coach Paras Mhambrey rushed to the spot and pacified the visiting all rounder.