Irfan Pathan calls out Australian media for labeling Virat Kohli as 'clown'

Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has strongly criticized the Australian media for its double standards in their treatment of Virat Kohli. Speaking on Star Sports during Day 2 of the fourth Test, Pathan expressed his concerns about the ongoing disrespect towards Indian cricketers in the Australian press.

"Australian newspapers, media, and even some former cricketers are the definition of two-faced," Pathan said. "They first call Virat Kohli the 'King', but the moment he shows some aggression, they label him differently. It's a case of double standards."

Pathan added, "We did not support the incident, but we left it to the officials. However, how can they go from calling him the 'King' to a 'Joker' in an instant? They want to sell cricket and make it popular, but not at the expense of Virat Kohli's market value. We will not accept this."

The former fast bowler also shared his personal experience, recounting how he was punished for an incident in which he was verbally abused by former Australian cricketer Damien Martyn. Pathan recalled, "When I got fined for the first time, I had just made a clap while Damien Martyn hurled an insult. But I was the one who could be seen on camera clapping, and I got fined. Damien Martyn escaped scot-free."

Pathan’s sentiments were echoed by Sunil Gavaskar, who highlighted the inconsistency in the treatment of players. "This is old news. It's always 'if we do it, it's alright, but if you do it, it's a crime'," Gavaskar remarked.