<p>Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh recalled a moment before India vs Pakistan semifinals match at World Cup 2011 when Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar asked him to arrange tickets for the semis and finals.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-eight-groundsmen-at-wankhede-test-positive-for-covid-19-375116" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- Eight groundsmen at Wankhede test positive for COVID-19</a></p>

<p>"Shoaib Akhtar told me the night before the match that he wants some tickets for his family and relatives from Pakistan. So I said no problem, and I called PCA (Punjab Cricket Association) and somehow arranged some four tickets for him. When I went to give them to him, he said 'It will be great if you can arrange four tickets for the final as well,” Harbhajan said in an interview with Sports Today.</p>

<p>"I asked what he would do with them. He asserted that they (Pakistan) were going to play the final in Mumbai. I replied 'If you are going to Mumbai, then where are we going? India will play the final, and you should come and watch. I will give you four more tickets as well, no problem, you come and comfortably spectate the game.'"</p>

<p>India went on to lift the World Cup in 2011 after MS Dhoni hit a six off Nuwan Kulasekera's delivery to end the 28-year wait. India became the first country to win the tournament at home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former Indian spin wizard recalled the finals of the 2011 World Cup and called it the most important day of his life.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Unbelievable, 2nd of April, that day was the most important day I would say of my career, of my life. I was watching my dreams come true, the way the love was flowing, everyone had a smile on their face and was swaying with happiness. It was not just our win, it was India's win," the veteran spinner said in a video posted by his IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders.</p>


Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh recalled a moment before India vs Pakistan semifinals match at World Cup 2011 when Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar asked him to arrange tickets for the semis and finals.

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh recalled a moment before India vs Pakistan semifinals match at World Cup 2011 when Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar asked him to arrange tickets for the semis and finals. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- Eight groundsmen at Wankhede test positive for COVID-19 "Shoaib Akhtar told me the night before the match that he wants some tickets for his family and relatives from Pakistan. So I said no problem, and I called PCA (Punjab Cricket Association) and somehow arranged some four tickets for him. When I went to give them to him, he said 'It will be great if you can arrange four tickets for the final as well,” Harbhajan said in an interview with Sports Today. "I asked what he would do with them. He asserted that they (Pakistan) were going to play the final in Mumbai. I replied 'If you are going to Mumbai, then where are we going? India will play the final, and you should come and watch. I will give you four more tickets as well, no problem, you come and comfortably spectate the game.'" India went on to lift the World Cup in 2011 after MS Dhoni hit a six off Nuwan Kulasekera's delivery to end the 28-year wait. India became the first country to win the tournament at home. Former Indian spin wizard recalled the finals of the 2011 World Cup and called it the most important day of his life. "Unbelievable, 2nd of April, that day was the most important day I would say of my career, of my life. I was watching my dreams come true, the way the love was flowing, everyone had a smile on their face and was swaying with happiness. It was not just our win, it was India's win," the veteran spinner said in a video posted by his IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders.

'Come and comfortably spectate': Harbhajan Singh recalls 'ticket' incident with Shoaib Akhtar during WC 2011

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{d55da3f5-fafe-4dac-a187-33c76b282359}{73}" paraid="959004822" >Harbhajan Singh is set to be back on the cricket field with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start on April 9. Harbhajan, who didn't play IPL 2020 due to personal reasons, was signed by KKR during the auction and all eyes will be on the World Cup-winning off-spinner in the lucrative T20 tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b7508866-11b5-48a5-8e8f-ec8cf71051de}{176}" paraid="1476390132" >Harbhajan, who hasn't played professional cricket since the final of IPL 2019, received backing from KKR captain Eoin Morgan as he said that he adds plenty of experience and value to the team.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{ab1a6ca3-c1b6-486e-9388-21fd2e58f589}{193}" paraid="1421071635" >Now, Harbhajan has said that many have asked why he is still playing at the age of 40 but added he is not here to prove anything to anyone but for his own satisfaction.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0e9775c4-9b75-48f5-bf13-f39805bf6af2}{91}" paraid="1936228400" >"A lot of people think 'Bhai yeh&nbsp;kyun&nbsp;khel&nbsp;raha&nbsp;hain?' Arrey bhai ye&nbsp;unki&nbsp;soch&nbsp;hai, meri&nbsp;naahi. Meri&nbsp;soch&nbsp;hai&nbsp;ki&nbsp;main&nbsp;abhi&nbsp;khel&nbsp;sakta&nbsp;hoon,&nbsp;toh&nbsp;main&nbsp;khelunga&nbsp;(People think 'why is he playing' but that's your opinion. From where I see myself, I want to play and I will play)," Harbhajan told&nbsp;PTI in an interview.</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0e9775c4-9b75-48f5-bf13-f39805bf6af2}{91}" paraid="1936228400" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-punjab-kings-more-balanced-squad-than-last-season-wasim-jaffer-to-wion-374488" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Punjab Kings more balanced squad than last season - Wasim Jaffer to WION</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{bf5b5d7b-daa0-4555-9cdc-7909a28a56f4}{162}" paraid="1674166038" >"I have got nothing to prove to anyone. My intention is to play well, enjoy my stint out there in the middle and playing cricket still gives me that satisfaction.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{bf5b5d7b-daa0-4555-9cdc-7909a28a56f4}{194}" paraid="1216927639" >"I have set a standard for myself and if I don't meet that, I don't need anyone else but I will blame myself. I need to ask myself, did I put in the optimum effort that was required," he said just before moving into the team bubble."&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{bf5b5d7b-daa0-4555-9cdc-7909a28a56f4}{226}" paraid="344411054" >Harbhajan will join the likes of Sunil Narine, Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav among others in the spin-heavy KKR outfit. The 40-year-old sounded confident ahead of IPL 2021 as he said with experience under his belt, he knows what to do in what conditions.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{bf5b5d7b-daa0-4555-9cdc-7909a28a56f4}{226}" paraid="344411054" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-lucky-that-i-will-be-playing-under-mahi-bhai-cheteshwar-pujara-ahead-of-ipl-2021-374456" hreflang="en">'I am lucky that I will be playing under Mahi bhai': Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{bf5b5d7b-daa0-4555-9cdc-7909a28a56f4}{250}" paraid="2104921155" >"These questions are asked because I haven't played a lot of cricket of late so teams are a bit defensive at auction and they don't want to bid for me," Harbhajan said.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{afa37fbe-d739-471c-9083-9044283f9ef3}{11}" paraid="711514901" >"But let me remind you all that when I did well for CSK in the 2019 IPL, I hadn't played any domestic cricket. I came to the camp, prepared and went into the match. At my level and experience, I know what needs to be done.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{afa37fbe-d739-471c-9083-9044283f9ef3}{27}" paraid="1660640476" >"I don't need to play domestic cricket for Punjab and stop a young talent from flourishing. That boy needs that chance more than me," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{afa37fbe-d739-471c-9083-9044283f9ef3}{43}" paraid="1996430960" >Kolkata knight Riders will&nbsp;start&nbsp;their&nbsp;IPL 2021&nbsp;campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on April 11&nbsp;</p>


Harbhajan Singh is set to be back on the cricket field with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start on April 9.

Harbhajan Singh is set to be back on the cricket field with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start on April 9. Harbhajan, who didn't play IPL 2020 due to personal reasons, was signed by KKR during the auction and all eyes will be on the World Cup-winning off-spinner in the lucrative T20 tournament. Harbhajan, who hasn't played professional cricket since the final of IPL 2019, received backing from KKR captain Eoin Morgan as he said that he adds plenty of experience and value to the team. Now, Harbhajan has said that many have asked why he is still playing at the age of 40 but added he is not here to prove anything to anyone but for his own satisfaction. "A lot of people think 'Bhai yeh kyun khel raha hain?' Arrey bhai ye unki soch hai, meri naahi. Meri soch hai ki main abhi khel sakta hoon, toh main khelunga (People think 'why is he playing' but that's your opinion. From where I see myself, I want to play and I will play)," Harbhajan told PTI in an interview. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Punjab Kings more balanced squad than last season - Wasim Jaffer to WION "I have got nothing to prove to anyone. My intention is to play well, enjoy my stint out there in the middle and playing cricket still gives me that satisfaction. "I have set a standard for myself and if I don't meet that, I don't need anyone else but I will blame myself. I need to ask myself, did I put in the optimum effort that was required," he said just before moving into the team bubble." Harbhajan will join the likes of Sunil Narine, Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav among others in the spin-heavy KKR outfit. The 40-year-old sounded confident ahead of IPL 2021 as he said with experience under his belt, he knows what to do in what conditions. ALSO READ: 'I am lucky that I will be playing under Mahi bhai': Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of IPL 2021 "These questions are asked because I haven't played a lot of cricket of late so teams are a bit defensive at auction and they don't want to bid for me," Harbhajan said. "But let me remind you all that when I did well for CSK in the 2019 IPL, I hadn't played any domestic cricket. I came to the camp, prepared and went into the match. At my level and experience, I know what needs to be done. "I don't need to play domestic cricket for Punjab and stop a young talent from flourishing. That boy needs that chance more than me," he added. Kolkata knight Riders will start their IPL 2021 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on April 11

I have set a standard for myself: Harbhajan Singh answers critics ahead of KKR stint in IPL 2021

<p>Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh was 'astonished' when Shabaz Nadeem was picked ahead of Kuldeep Yadav as Axar Patel was ruled out of the first Test against England.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-a-little-bit-surprised-vvs-laxman-on-indias-tactic-after-tea-on-day-1-361728" hreflang="en">'I was a little bit surprised': VVS Laxman on India's tactic after Tea on Day 1</a></p>

<p>"It was astonishing for me to see Kuldeep Yadav not get a chance in Team India's playing XI despite him being in the squad. I can understand that since Axar Patel is injured, Shahbaz Nadeem came in as a like-for-like replacement. But it doesn't make sense to play two off-spinners in Chennai," Harbhajan told Sports Tak.</p>

<p>Ravindra Jadeja is out of the first two Tests due to the wrist injury, whereas, Sundar was just one test old, which meant Kuldeep was the favourite to be picked. Yadav has been benched for some time now. The spinner was not picked in the Australia tour despite a string of injuries in the Indian squad. In Yadav's last Test appearance he picked up a five-wicket haul in his last Test appearance in Sydney against Australia.</p>

<p>"Kuldeep Yadav's presence would have added a bit of variety to this Indian bowling attack. In the last two Tests that Kuldeep Yadav played, he had picked up five-wicket hauls. So I am completely baffled by his exclusion," Harbhajan asserted.</p>

<p>"This is also not a great sign for his confidence because it demoralizes you even further when you are a part of the squad but still can't make it to the playing XI."</p>

<p>Shahbaz Nadeem managed to pick up a crucial wicket of Ben Stokes, who smashed 82 runs in 114 runs.&nbsp;</p>


Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh was 'astonished' when Shabaz Nadeem was picked ahead of Kuldeep Yadav as Axar Patel was ruled out of the first Test against England.

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh was 'astonished' when Shabaz Nadeem was picked ahead of Kuldeep Yadav as Axar Patel was ruled out of the first Test against England. ALSO READ: 'I was a little bit surprised': VVS Laxman on India's tactic after Tea on Day 1 "It was astonishing for me to see Kuldeep Yadav not get a chance in Team India's playing XI despite him being in the squad. I can understand that since Axar Patel is injured, Shahbaz Nadeem came in as a like-for-like replacement. But it doesn't make sense to play two off-spinners in Chennai," Harbhajan told Sports Tak. Ravindra Jadeja is out of the first two Tests due to the wrist injury, whereas, Sundar was just one test old, which meant Kuldeep was the favourite to be picked. Yadav has been benched for some time now. The spinner was not picked in the Australia tour despite a string of injuries in the Indian squad. In Yadav's last Test appearance he picked up a five-wicket haul in his last Test appearance in Sydney against Australia. "Kuldeep Yadav's presence would have added a bit of variety to this Indian bowling attack. In the last two Tests that Kuldeep Yadav played, he had picked up five-wicket hauls. So I am completely baffled by his exclusion," Harbhajan asserted. "This is also not a great sign for his confidence because it demoralizes you even further when you are a part of the squad but still can't make it to the playing XI." Shahbaz Nadeem managed to pick up a crucial wicket of Ben Stokes, who smashed 82 runs in 114 runs.

'Not a great sign for his confidence': Harbhajan Singh on Kuldeep Yadav's omission

<p paraeid="{9efdffe3-ad36-420e-b2cc-1305c0f98363}{154}" paraid="997003419">Chennai Super Kings on Wednesday released veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh from the squad ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 mini-auction. With the deadline to submit the list of retained players set for January 20, IPL franchises are set to release the list of retained and released players ahead of the mini-auction for IPL 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7ceaa855-2d34-48d4-9819-c3d989652da3}{36}" paraid="1382134998" >Harbhajan Singh, who missed IPL 2020 in the United Arab Emirates, due to personal reasons, took to social media platform Twitter to announce the development as he thanked CSK for beautiful memories in the last couple of years. The 40-year-old went on to thank the staff, management and CSK fans for supporting him during his stay with the Yellow Army.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{51ba5d72-9401-40fc-bd3f-d44eded33f1e}{183}" paraid="138051976" >"As my contract comes to an end with @ChennaiIPL, playing for this team was great experience..beautiful memories made &amp;some great friends which I will remember fondly for years to&nbsp;come..Thank&nbsp;you @ChennaiIPL&nbsp;,&nbsp;management, staff and fans for a wonderful 2years..&nbsp;All the best..," tweeted Harbajan on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{51ba5d72-9401-40fc-bd3f-d44eded33f1e}{183}" paraid="138051976" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-thanks-bcci-on-successful-tour-salutes-team-indias-courage-and-skill-357897" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill'</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As my contract comes to an end with <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a>, playing for this team was a great experience..beautiful memories made &amp;some great friends which I will remember fondly for years to come..Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a>, management, staff and fans for a wonderful 2years.. All the best..🙏</p>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1351778962708389889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Harbhajan, in IPL 2019, featured in 11 matches for Chennai Super Kings where the veteran off-spinner picked 16 wickets with an economy rate of 7.09. While he could have been a potent option with the ball at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, the IPL franchise thought it would be of best interest to look&nbsp;towards the&nbsp;future.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-hailed-as-immortals-australia-under-fire-after-gabba-stunner-357893" hreflang="en">India hailed as 'Immortals', Australia under fire after Gabba stunner</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f23ab225-34b9-4a81-92a1-93fbfdca78f5}{7}" paraid="1630320884" >Moreover, the likes of Murali Vijay and Piyush Chawla are also likely to be released while the fate of Suresh Raina and Kedar Jadhav lies in MS Dhoni's hands with the CSK skipper expected to take a final call on the&nbsp;duo.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f23ab225-34b9-4a81-92a1-93fbfdca78f5}{7}" paraid="1630320884" >Chennai Super Kings are eyeing an overhaul ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction after failing to reach the playoffs for the first time in their history in IPL 2019.</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5d6e1d84-4860-4879-a14f-3d8d6e2de1c7}{207}" paraid="803959885" >&nbsp;</p>


Chennai Super Kings on Wednesday released veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh from the squad ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 mini-auction. With the deadline to submit the list of retained players set for January 20, IPL franchises are set to release the list of retained and released players ahead of the mini-auction for IPL 2021.

Chennai Super Kings on Wednesday released veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh from the squad ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 mini-auction. With the deadline to submit the list of retained players set for January 20, IPL franchises are set to release the list of retained and released players ahead of the mini-auction for IPL 2021. Harbhajan Singh, who missed IPL 2020 in the United Arab Emirates, due to personal reasons, took to social media platform Twitter to announce the development as he thanked CSK for beautiful memories in the last couple of years. The 40-year-old went on to thank the staff, management and CSK fans for supporting him during his stay with the Yellow Army. "As my contract comes to an end with @ChennaiIPL, playing for this team was great experience..beautiful memories made &some great friends which I will remember fondly for years to come..Thank you @ChennaiIPL , management, staff and fans for a wonderful 2years.. All the best..," tweeted Harbajan on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill' As my contract comes to an end with @ChennaiIPL, playing for this team was a great experience..beautiful memories made &some great friends which I will remember fondly for years to come..Thank you @ChennaiIPL, management, staff and fans for a wonderful 2years.. All the best..🙏 — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) January 20, 2021 × Harbhajan, in IPL 2019, featured in 11 matches for Chennai Super Kings where the veteran off-spinner picked 16 wickets with an economy rate of 7.09. While he could have been a potent option with the ball at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, the IPL franchise thought it would be of best interest to look towards the future. ALSO READ: India hailed as 'Immortals', Australia under fire after Gabba stunner Moreover, the likes of Murali Vijay and Piyush Chawla are also likely to be released while the fate of Suresh Raina and Kedar Jadhav lies in MS Dhoni's hands with the CSK skipper expected to take a final call on the duo. Chennai Super Kings are eyeing an overhaul ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction after failing to reach the playoffs for the first time in their history in IPL 2019.

Chennai Super Kings release Harbhajan Singh ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction

<p>India's Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane is most likely to lead the team after Virat Kohli's departure. However, former test spinner Harbhajan Singh warned Rahane to use his personality than copying Virat Kohli's leadership style in the final three tests against Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tiring-out-jasprit-bumrah-will-be-crucial-for-australia-josh-hazlewood-344289" hreflang="en">'Tiring out' Jasprit Bumrah will be crucial for Australia: Josh Hazlewood</a></p>

<p>According to Harbhajan, soft-spoken Mumbaikar should try to lead the way that comes naturally to him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He's very calm and composed, not so expressive. He's very different to Virat Kohli," Harbhajan, who played 103 tests and 236 one-dayers between 1998-2015, told Sports Tak digital channel.</p>

<p>"I would like to remind Rahane that he doesn't need to change his game or personality.</p>

<p>"Looking at a personality like Virat, Rahane might think that he has to adopt some of it to beat Australia. But I don’t think that's necessary.</p>

<p>"All Rahane needs to do is be himself and make sure he gets the best out of his team."</p>

<p>India team led by Kohli created history after beating Australia 2-1 in 2018/19. They became the first Asian side to triumph in a Test series Down Under.</p>

<p>Harbhajan had no doubts India would miss Kohli, also their batting mainstay.</p>

<p>"Virat has an unbelievable record in Australia, something every batsman aspires. So definitely India is going to miss Kohli in the batting unit.</p>

<p>"Then his experience as a captain. His aggression, leading from the front, that is Virat Kohli.</p>

<p>"He always puts his best foot forward. His body language, his intent ... India is going to miss him."</p>


India's Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane is most likely to lead the team after Virat Kohli's departure. However, former test spinner Harbhajan Singh warned Rahane to use his personality than copying Virat Kohli's leadership style in the final three tests against Australia.

India's Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane is most likely to lead the team after Virat Kohli's departure. However, former test spinner Harbhajan Singh warned Rahane to use his personality than copying Virat Kohli's leadership style in the final three tests against Australia. Also read: 'Tiring out' Jasprit Bumrah will be crucial for Australia: Josh Hazlewood According to Harbhajan, soft-spoken Mumbaikar should try to lead the way that comes naturally to him. "He's very calm and composed, not so expressive. He's very different to Virat Kohli," Harbhajan, who played 103 tests and 236 one-dayers between 1998-2015, told Sports Tak digital channel. "I would like to remind Rahane that he doesn't need to change his game or personality. "Looking at a personality like Virat, Rahane might think that he has to adopt some of it to beat Australia. But I don’t think that's necessary. "All Rahane needs to do is be himself and make sure he gets the best out of his team." India team led by Kohli created history after beating Australia 2-1 in 2018/19. They became the first Asian side to triumph in a Test series Down Under. Harbhajan had no doubts India would miss Kohli, also their batting mainstay. "Virat has an unbelievable record in Australia, something every batsman aspires. So definitely India is going to miss Kohli in the batting unit. "Then his experience as a captain. His aggression, leading from the front, that is Virat Kohli. "He always puts his best foot forward. His body language, his intent ... India is going to miss him."

'Rahane doesn't need to change his game or personality', warns Harbhajan Singh

<p>Skipper and prolific batsman Virat Kohli's departure after the first Test will be a big blow to India for their remainder of the Tour in Australia. However, former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh believes that the void left by Kohli could be filled by these two batsmen.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-ind-jasprit-bumrah-and-mohammed-shami-likely-to-be-rotated-in-white-ball-series-344056" hreflang="en">AUS vs IND: Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami likely to be rotated in white-ball series</a></p>

<p>"Virat Kohli is coming back after the first Test but this open the window of opportunity for someone like KL Rahul, who is coming back in the Test team. Virat Kohli is a big player and he has scored runs whenever he has toured Australia, his absence will be missed but this is an opportunity for players to step in," Harbhajan told Sports Tak.</p>

<p>Vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane is likely to lead the team after Kohli's departure. Rohit Sharma has also been added to the squad. Last season, Pujara was successful against Australia as he smashed 521 runs. KL Rahul has had a successful IPL season. The KXIP skipper was the Orange Cap holder.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Virat Kohli's absence should be seen in this manner. KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara are big players and they have an opportunity to prove themselves. I think Team India has it in them but the fact that Virat Kohli is there or not should be forgotten. The team should just remember that they are in Australia to win and repeat what they did the last time," Harbhajan said.</p>


Skipper and prolific batsman Virat Kohli's departure after the first Test will be a big blow to India for their remainder of the Tour in Australia. However, former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh believes that the void left by Kohli could be filled by these two batsmen.

Skipper and prolific batsman Virat Kohli's departure after the first Test will be a big blow to India for their remainder of the Tour in Australia. However, former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh believes that the void left by Kohli could be filled by these two batsmen. Also read: AUS vs IND: Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami likely to be rotated in white-ball series "Virat Kohli is coming back after the first Test but this open the window of opportunity for someone like KL Rahul, who is coming back in the Test team. Virat Kohli is a big player and he has scored runs whenever he has toured Australia, his absence will be missed but this is an opportunity for players to step in," Harbhajan told Sports Tak. Vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane is likely to lead the team after Kohli's departure. Rohit Sharma has also been added to the squad. Last season, Pujara was successful against Australia as he smashed 521 runs. KL Rahul has had a successful IPL season. The KXIP skipper was the Orange Cap holder. "Virat Kohli's absence should be seen in this manner. KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara are big players and they have an opportunity to prove themselves. I think Team India has it in them but the fact that Virat Kohli is there or not should be forgotten. The team should just remember that they are in Australia to win and repeat what they did the last time," Harbhajan said.

AUS vs IND: Harbhajan Singh names 2 batsmen who can fill void left by Virat Kohli

<p>The season opener of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday was nothing short of a thriller. Ambati Rayudu made a sensational comeback to professional cricket as he smashed a match-winning 71 to help CSK bag their first win of the tournament.</p>

<p>Harbhajan Singh, who opted out of IPL 2020 due to personal reasons, has said that it was “injustice” that Rayudu was dropped from the Indian squad for the ICC World Cup 2019 while adding sometimes selectors need to keep aside age and look at the talent and form.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Trending:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2020-action-in-pictures-as-grand-festival-of-cricket-starts-in-uae-328877" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Action in pictures as 'grand festival' of cricket starts in UAE</a></strong></p>

<p>While Faf du Plessis and Sam Curran played crucial knocks for CSK, it was Rayudu who stood tall despite struggling a bit after coming on early to bat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Harbhajan told Sports Tak, "It will be less however much you appreciate Rayudu. I feel there was an injustice done to him when the World Cup team was picked. He should have been definitely there on that team. But he has shown again in this match, how much ability he has and that age is on one side and talent is also something that needs to be looked at."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-jos-buttler-to-miss-rajasthan-royals-season-opener-vs-csk-328900" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Jos Buttler to miss Rajasthan Royals' season opener vs CSK</a></strong></p>

<p>Harbhajan further praised the CSK bowling attack, especially Piyush Chawla, who restricted scoring by MI after the Rohit Sharma-led side went off to a flyer. "I would like to praise the bowling attack, the manner in which all the bowlers have bowled, especially Piyush Chawla, who conceded so few runs and took the big wicket of Rohit Sharma and restricted a big team like Mumbai Indians to a score of 162 runs.</p>

<p>CSK will next take on Rajasthan Royals at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in Sharjah on Tuesday.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The season opener of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday was nothing short of a thriller.

The season opener of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday was nothing short of a thriller. Ambati Rayudu made a sensational comeback to professional cricket as he smashed a match-winning 71 to help CSK bag their first win of the tournament. Harbhajan Singh, who opted out of IPL 2020 due to personal reasons, has said that it was “injustice” that Rayudu was dropped from the Indian squad for the ICC World Cup 2019 while adding sometimes selectors need to keep aside age and look at the talent and form. Trending: IPL 2020: Action in pictures as 'grand festival' of cricket starts in UAE While Faf du Plessis and Sam Curran played crucial knocks for CSK, it was Rayudu who stood tall despite struggling a bit after coming on early to bat. Harbhajan told Sports Tak, "It will be less however much you appreciate Rayudu. I feel there was an injustice done to him when the World Cup team was picked. He should have been definitely there on that team. But he has shown again in this match, how much ability he has and that age is on one side and talent is also something that needs to be looked at." ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Jos Buttler to miss Rajasthan Royals' season opener vs CSK Harbhajan further praised the CSK bowling attack, especially Piyush Chawla, who restricted scoring by MI after the Rohit Sharma-led side went off to a flyer. "I would like to praise the bowling attack, the manner in which all the bowlers have bowled, especially Piyush Chawla, who conceded so few runs and took the big wicket of Rohit Sharma and restricted a big team like Mumbai Indians to a score of 162 runs. CSK will next take on Rajasthan Royals at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in Sharjah on Tuesday.

Ambati Rayudu not being in World Cup squad was 'injustice', says Harbhajan Singh

<p>Chennai Super Kings on Saturday will be clashing against defending champions Mumbai Indians in the opening game of the Indian Premier League (IPL).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mi-vs-csk-ipl-2020-preview-ms-dhoni-returns-but-will-it-be-sufficient-in-front-of-defending-champions-328609">MI vs CSK, IPL 2020 Preview: MS Dhoni returns but will it be sufficient?</a></p>

<p>However, CSK faced quite some setbacks before the opening match and one of them was their star batsman Suresh Raina and spinner Harbhajan Singh pulled out of the tournament citing personal reasons. The Chennai-based team has not yet announced their replacements. But, Harbhajan Singh feels that these setbacks will not affect CSK's performance in this tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-trivia-top-records-of-thala-ms-dhoni-in-the-tournament-328205" hreflang="en">IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament</a></strong></p>

<p>"CSK is one of those sides which has a lot of experience. Yes, they don’t have Harbhajan Singh, they don’t have Suresh Raina, that’s not gonna bother them too much. They have got a wealth of experience of Shane Watson, MS Dhoni, Dwayne Bravo, Ravindra Jadeja. Yes, I am gonna miss playing with CSK this year. I don’t know how much they will miss me. They will still go forward without me or Suresh or no matter whoever," he said while speaking to India Today.</p>

<p>During the interview, Harbhajan also clarified that his wife Geeta Basra and daughter needed him to be with them rather than being on the field.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I thought it’s important for me to be with the family and spend some time with them rather than being there in the park. I am gonna miss playing but at the same time wishing my team CSK all the very best for the tournament and I am sure they will do what they are known for," Harbhajan Singh further added.</p>


Chennai Super Kings on Saturday will be clashing against defending champions Mumbai Indians in the opening game of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Also read: MI vs CSK, IPL 2020 Preview: MS Dhoni returns but will it be sufficient?

Chennai Super Kings on Saturday will be clashing against defending champions Mumbai Indians in the opening game of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Also read: MI vs CSK, IPL 2020 Preview: MS Dhoni returns but will it be sufficient? However, CSK faced quite some setbacks before the opening match and one of them was their star batsman Suresh Raina and spinner Harbhajan Singh pulled out of the tournament citing personal reasons. The Chennai-based team has not yet announced their replacements. But, Harbhajan Singh feels that these setbacks will not affect CSK's performance in this tournament. IN PICS | IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament "CSK is one of those sides which has a lot of experience. Yes, they don’t have Harbhajan Singh, they don’t have Suresh Raina, that’s not gonna bother them too much. They have got a wealth of experience of Shane Watson, MS Dhoni, Dwayne Bravo, Ravindra Jadeja. Yes, I am gonna miss playing with CSK this year. I don’t know how much they will miss me. They will still go forward without me or Suresh or no matter whoever," he said while speaking to India Today. During the interview, Harbhajan also clarified that his wife Geeta Basra and daughter needed him to be with them rather than being on the field. "I thought it’s important for me to be with the family and spend some time with them rather than being there in the park. I am gonna miss playing but at the same time wishing my team CSK all the very best for the tournament and I am sure they will do what they are known for," Harbhajan Singh further added.

CSK will still go forward in IPL 2020 without me or Suresh : Harbhajan Singh

<p>Harbhajan Singh on Friday confirmed that he has pulled out of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 due to ‘personal reasons’. Harbhajan becomes the second player after Suresh Raina to opt out of IPL 2020. While Raina returned back home after joining the CSK squad in the UAE, Harbhajan skipped the conditioning camp in Chennai and even opted against joining the team in the UAE.</p>

<p>"Dear Friends I will not be playing IPL this year due to personal reasons.These are difficult times and I would expect some privacy as I spend time with my family. @ChennaiIPL CSK management has been extremely supportive and I wish them a great IPL Stay safe and Jai Hind," Harbhajan Singh tweeted on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Dear Friends<br />
I will not be playing IPL this year due to personal reasons.These are difficult times and I would expect some privacy as I spend time with my family. <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> CSK management has been extremely supportive and I wish them a great IPL<br />
Stay safe and Jai Hind</p>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1301841378943492096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The latest development of Harbhajan pulling out of IPL 2020 comes as a huge blow to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), who miss out on another experienced player after Raina. However, the Yellow Army have variety of spinners in their squad, both experienced and young, so Harbhajan’s move won’t bother them much.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-schedule-chennai-super-kings-likely-to-face-mumbai-indians-in-opener-report-325174" hreflang="en">IPL 2020 schedule: Chennai Super Kings likely to face Mumbai Indians in opener - Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, CSK on Friday completed their extended quarantine period after players and staff, barring those who had earlier tested positive for COVID-19, tested negative for the dreaded virus and now, the three-time IPL winners are preparing commence their training, making them the last franchise to start practicing for the lucrative tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even players and staff including the likes of MS Dhoni, Shane Watson, Laxmipathy Balaji, Michael Hussey, Murali Vijay, were seen having breakfast in their hotel after the completion of extended quarantine period.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-dhoni-watson-share-good-laugh-over-breakfast-as-csk-end-quarantine-period-325193" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Dhoni, Watson share good laugh over breakfast as CSK end quarantine period</a></strong></p>

<p>There are reports that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is likely to release the schedule for IPL 2020 on Friday after CSK were cleared to start training. Reportedly, the season opener is set to be played between CSK and Mumbai Indians (MI) on September 19.&nbsp;</p>


Harbhajan Singh on Friday confirmed that he has pulled out of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 due to ‘personal reasons’. Harbhajan becomes the second player after Suresh Raina to opt out of IPL 2020.

Harbhajan Singh on Friday confirmed that he has pulled out of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 due to ‘personal reasons’. Harbhajan becomes the second player after Suresh Raina to opt out of IPL 2020. While Raina returned back home after joining the CSK squad in the UAE, Harbhajan skipped the conditioning camp in Chennai and even opted against joining the team in the UAE. "Dear Friends I will not be playing IPL this year due to personal reasons.These are difficult times and I would expect some privacy as I spend time with my family. @ChennaiIPL CSK management has been extremely supportive and I wish them a great IPL Stay safe and Jai Hind," Harbhajan Singh tweeted on Friday. Dear Friends I will not be playing IPL this year due to personal reasons.These are difficult times and I would expect some privacy as I spend time with my family. @ChennaiIPL CSK management has been extremely supportive and I wish them a great IPL Stay safe and Jai Hind — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) September 4, 2020 × The latest development of Harbhajan pulling out of IPL 2020 comes as a huge blow to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), who miss out on another experienced player after Raina. However, the Yellow Army have variety of spinners in their squad, both experienced and young, so Harbhajan’s move won’t bother them much. ALSO READ: IPL 2020 schedule: Chennai Super Kings likely to face Mumbai Indians in opener - Report Meanwhile, CSK on Friday completed their extended quarantine period after players and staff, barring those who had earlier tested positive for COVID-19, tested negative for the dreaded virus and now, the three-time IPL winners are preparing commence their training, making them the last franchise to start practicing for the lucrative tournament. Even players and staff including the likes of MS Dhoni, Shane Watson, Laxmipathy Balaji, Michael Hussey, Murali Vijay, were seen having breakfast in their hotel after the completion of extended quarantine period. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Dhoni, Watson share good laugh over breakfast as CSK end quarantine period There are reports that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is likely to release the schedule for IPL 2020 on Friday after CSK were cleared to start training. Reportedly, the season opener is set to be played between CSK and Mumbai Indians (MI) on September 19.

After Suresh Raina, Harbhajan Singh pulls out of IPL 2020 due to personal reasons

<p>Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh slams former Indian coach Greg Chappell who recently spoke about MS Dhoni's finishing skills.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-most-powerful-batsman-and-best-finisher-cricket-has-ever-seen-greg-chappell-298399">MS Dhoni 'most powerful batsman' and 'best finisher' cricket has ever seen: Greg Chappell</a></p>

<p>While speaking in an interaction on the Facebook handle of the Playwrite Foundation he said that he played a major role in shaping MS Dhoni's finishing skills. He talked about a match against Sri Lanka in 2005 where he had challenged Dhoni to "play along the ground" &nbsp;while he was hitting the balls outside the park.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Greg said: "I remember his knock of 183 against Sri Lanka and how he tore them apart. It was power hitting at its very best. The next match was in Pune. I asked MS, 'why don't you play along the ground more instead of trying to hit every ball to the boundary'. We were chasing 260 odd and were in a good position and Dhoni was playing a contrasting inning to the one he had played just a couple of days before.</p>

<p>"We still needed 20 runs to win and Dhoni asked me, through 12th man RP Singh if he could hit sixes. I told him not until the target was in single digit. When we needed six runs to win, he finished the game with a six," he said.</p>

<p>He recalled that he used to challenge Dhoni to finish the game. "I always used to challenge him if he could finish the game. There used to be a booming smile on his face, whenever he used to score the winning runs. He is definitely the best finisher the game has ever seen," he signed off.</p>

<p>This did not go down well with Harbhajan Singh, who took a dig at the former coach. He took to Twitter and said: "He asked Dhoni to play along the ground coz coach was hitting everyone out the park. He was playing different games #worstdaysofindiancricketundergreg."</p>

<p><img alt="mm" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a6d0d3d0-2a45-4f3b-8707-d2c05e7fae02" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Capture_9.JPG" /></p>

<p>Greg Chappell era in the Indian cricket lasted between 2005 and 2007. This included India's 2007 World Cup campaign which is regarded as the worst run by the team after they got knocked out in the group stages. He had a well-known rift with former Indian skipper and current BCCI president Sourav Ganguly. He also had a bad impression on few senior players including Sachin Tendulkar.</p>


Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh slams former Indian coach Greg Chappell who recently spoke about MS Dhoni's finishing skills. Also read: MS Dhoni 'most powerful batsman' and 'best finisher' cricket has ever seen: Greg Chappell While speaking in an interaction on the Facebook handle of the Playwrite Foundation he said that he played a major role in shaping MS Dhoni's finishing skills.

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh slams former Indian coach Greg Chappell who recently spoke about MS Dhoni's finishing skills. Also read: MS Dhoni 'most powerful batsman' and 'best finisher' cricket has ever seen: Greg Chappell While speaking in an interaction on the Facebook handle of the Playwrite Foundation he said that he played a major role in shaping MS Dhoni's finishing skills. He talked about a match against Sri Lanka in 2005 where he had challenged Dhoni to "play along the ground" while he was hitting the balls outside the park. Greg said: "I remember his knock of 183 against Sri Lanka and how he tore them apart. It was power hitting at its very best. The next match was in Pune. I asked MS, 'why don't you play along the ground more instead of trying to hit every ball to the boundary'. We were chasing 260 odd and were in a good position and Dhoni was playing a contrasting inning to the one he had played just a couple of days before. "We still needed 20 runs to win and Dhoni asked me, through 12th man RP Singh if he could hit sixes. I told him not until the target was in single digit. When we needed six runs to win, he finished the game with a six," he said. He recalled that he used to challenge Dhoni to finish the game. "I always used to challenge him if he could finish the game. There used to be a booming smile on his face, whenever he used to score the winning runs. He is definitely the best finisher the game has ever seen," he signed off. This did not go down well with Harbhajan Singh, who took a dig at the former coach. He took to Twitter and said: "He asked Dhoni to play along the ground coz coach was hitting everyone out the park. He was playing different games #worstdaysofindiancricketundergreg." Greg Chappell era in the Indian cricket lasted between 2005 and 2007. This included India's 2007 World Cup campaign which is regarded as the worst run by the team after they got knocked out in the group stages. He had a well-known rift with former Indian skipper and current BCCI president Sourav Ganguly. He also had a bad impression on few senior players including Sachin Tendulkar.

'Worst days of Indian cricket': Harbhajan Singh slams Greg Chappell for taking credit for Dhoni's finishing skills

<p>With cricket taking a backseat due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a sense of uncertainty as in whether major upcoming tournaments will go as scheduled. The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 has already been postponed indefinitely whereas there are question marks on the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November. Veteran Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh is of the view that international players won’t be travelling in the near future to play cricket while adding he will be absolutely fine if the authorities decide not to conduct the IPL this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Harbhajan further said that cricket can’t be forced in amid the current situation while adding the game can wait as human life comes first.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ecb-terminates-contracts-of-players-signed-up-for-the-hundred-296763" hreflang="en">ECB terminates contracts of players signed up for ‘The Hundred’</a></strong></p>

<p>“Travelling from and to will be restricted in many countries in the coming months. I don’t see international players travelling in the near future. I do not know what decisions the (Indian) government and BCCI take on the future of IPL. Honestly, even if IPL doesn’t happen for the first time in 13 years I think that is fine. We can’t force to have cricket seeing the serious situation we all are in. Human life comes first, cricket can wait,” Bhajji told a leading daily.</p>

<p>Harbhajan, who would have been playing for CSK in the 13th edition of the IPL if everything was normal. The 39-year-old said that he is not even thinking of cricket and the main agenda in his books is to save lives and practice solidarity.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-spitting-no-fans-baseball-restarts-south-koreas-sports-season-296751" hreflang="en">No spitting, no fans: Baseball restarts South Korea's sports season</a></strong></p>

<p>“This is a testing time for everyone. Honestly, I am not even thinking about cricket at the moment. Saving lives and practicing solidarity are the most important things on my agenda. When we began the CSK camp in the beginning of March we didn’t anticipate this as we had large crowds coming in even for practice sessions. Within days and weeks the world turned upside down; nobody is talking about cricket or sports. Everybody is just concerned about saving lives,” he said.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, speculations are rife that the BCCI is looking for an alternate window to conduct the IPL later in the year 2020.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


With cricket taking a backseat due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a sense of uncertainty as in whether major upcoming tournaments will go as scheduled. The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 has already been postponed indefinitely whereas there are question marks on the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November.

With cricket taking a backseat due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a sense of uncertainty as in whether major upcoming tournaments will go as scheduled. The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 has already been postponed indefinitely whereas there are question marks on the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November. Veteran Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh is of the view that international players won’t be travelling in the near future to play cricket while adding he will be absolutely fine if the authorities decide not to conduct the IPL this year. Harbhajan further said that cricket can’t be forced in amid the current situation while adding the game can wait as human life comes first. ALSO READ: ECB terminates contracts of players signed up for ‘The Hundred’ “Travelling from and to will be restricted in many countries in the coming months. I don’t see international players travelling in the near future. I do not know what decisions the (Indian) government and BCCI take on the future of IPL. Honestly, even if IPL doesn’t happen for the first time in 13 years I think that is fine. We can’t force to have cricket seeing the serious situation we all are in. Human life comes first, cricket can wait,” Bhajji told a leading daily. Harbhajan, who would have been playing for CSK in the 13th edition of the IPL if everything was normal. The 39-year-old said that he is not even thinking of cricket and the main agenda in his books is to save lives and practice solidarity. ALSO READ: No spitting, no fans: Baseball restarts South Korea's sports season “This is a testing time for everyone. Honestly, I am not even thinking about cricket at the moment. Saving lives and practicing solidarity are the most important things on my agenda. When we began the CSK camp in the beginning of March we didn’t anticipate this as we had large crowds coming in even for practice sessions. Within days and weeks the world turned upside down; nobody is talking about cricket or sports. Everybody is just concerned about saving lives,” he said. Meanwhile, speculations are rife that the BCCI is looking for an alternate window to conduct the IPL later in the year 2020.

'If IPL doesn't happen for first time in 13 years...' - Harbhajan Singh throws his weight on future of showpiece tournament

<p>Veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has said that he won’t mind playing the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 behind closed doors, in front of empty stands, as it will allow every fan to watch the tournament on their television sets.</p>

<p>Harbhajan, who plays for Chennai Super Kings, is of the view that the organisers have prioritise players and staff’s safety by ensuring that the stadiums, hotels, flights are properly sanitized while adding a lot of lives will be on the line if IPL 2020 takes place. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><span style="font-size:9.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:
&quot;Verdana&quot;,sans-serif;color:black"><o:p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong></o:p></span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-bundesliga-clubs-resume-training-a-debate-over-fairness-and-fitness-291089" hreflang="en">As Bundesliga clubs resume training, a debate over fairness and fitness</a></strong></p>

<p>"Spectators are important, but if the situation arises, I don't mind playing without them. Yes, as a player I won't get the vibe, but this will ensure that every fan will get to watch IPL on their TV," Harbhajan told the host broadcasters.</p>

<p>"We will have to be cautious about everything and should prioritise players' safety by ensuring that the match venues, team hotels, flights are properly sanitized. A lot of lives are on the line so we should organise IPL when everything is fine," he added.</p>

<p>IPL 2020, which was earlier scheduled to start from March 29, was suspended till April 15 in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak in the country. And given the current nationwide lockdown, it is unlikely that the cash-rich tournament will take place.</p>

<p><strong><span style="font-size:9.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:
&quot;Verdana&quot;,sans-serif;color:black"><o:p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong></o:p></span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-a-good-idea-waqar-younis-on-cricket-in-empty-stadiums-amid-covid-19-pandemic-290948" hreflang="en">‘Not a good idea...' - Waqar Younis on cricket in empty stadiums amid COVID-19 pandemic</a></strong></p>

<p>"I miss matches the most, was hoping that I would get to play 17 matches (including finals) after a year's gap. I miss our visits to the ground, the hordes of fans waiting to greet us, the bikes that used to ride along our bus and am sure that every fan is missing this as well," Harbhajan said.</p>

<p>"I hope that IPL happens soon, till then I will keep myself fit," quipped the 39-year-old veteran of 103 Tests.<span style="font-size:9.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:
&quot;Verdana&quot;,sans-serif;color:black"><o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>


Veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has said that he won’t mind playing the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 behind closed doors, in front of empty stands, as it will allow every fan to watch the tournament on their television sets.

Veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has said that he won’t mind playing the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 behind closed doors, in front of empty stands, as it will allow every fan to watch the tournament on their television sets. Harbhajan, who plays for Chennai Super Kings, is of the view that the organisers have prioritise players and staff’s safety by ensuring that the stadiums, hotels, flights are properly sanitized while adding a lot of lives will be on the line if IPL 2020 takes place. ALSO READ: As Bundesliga clubs resume training, a debate over fairness and fitness "Spectators are important, but if the situation arises, I don't mind playing without them. Yes, as a player I won't get the vibe, but this will ensure that every fan will get to watch IPL on their TV," Harbhajan told the host broadcasters. "We will have to be cautious about everything and should prioritise players' safety by ensuring that the match venues, team hotels, flights are properly sanitized. A lot of lives are on the line so we should organise IPL when everything is fine," he added. IPL 2020, which was earlier scheduled to start from March 29, was suspended till April 15 in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak in the country. And given the current nationwide lockdown, it is unlikely that the cash-rich tournament will take place. ALSO READ: ‘Not a good idea...' - Waqar Younis on cricket in empty stadiums amid COVID-19 pandemic "I miss matches the most, was hoping that I would get to play 17 matches (including finals) after a year's gap. I miss our visits to the ground, the hordes of fans waiting to greet us, the bikes that used to ride along our bus and am sure that every fan is missing this as well," Harbhajan said. "I hope that IPL happens soon, till then I will keep myself fit," quipped the 39-year-old veteran of 103 Tests.

Harbhajan Singh fine with the idea of IPL 2020 behind closed doors

<p>For the reticent Gautam Gambhir, India''s 2011 World Cup triumph was a journey of 20-odd people, not one freeze-frame moment that social media makes it look every year on this very day.</p>

<p>Harbhajan Singh can't fathom why those 11 players never played as a team in a single international game after that.</p>

<p>Ashish Nehra is not a man with too many regrets as he missed the final with a finger fracture but April 2 is a day which better half Rushma ensures that he "better not forget".</p>

<p>They were heroes in one of the most glorious chapters in Indian cricket and they all cherish that even though lives and careers have gone in different directions in the past nine years.</p>

<p>And what about him? Well, Mahendra Singh Dhoni was a recluse then and remains a recluse now, unbelievably guarded, even as the speculation on his future has come to a halt with people, for a change, discussing implications of the COVID-19 more.</p>

<p>Sachin Tendulkar, since then, has retired but is no less revered by one and all who can still watch the 46-year-old pad up even if it''s for five minutes in a charity game.</p>

<p>The man who carried him on his shoulders, Virat Kohli, has taken Tendulkar''s place as world cricket''s premier batsman with a game that brings thousands into the stadium.</p>

<p>Zaheer Khan has settled into a nice post-retirement life with some franchise coaching as well as donning the role of an analyst while S Sreesanth, after all the taint, shame and horror of match-fixing, maybe just hoping to don the Kerala jersey one last time.</p>

<p>"Dhoni hits a six, India wins the World Cup," is among the most famous lines spoken on air by Ravi Shastri, whose commentary otherwise was littered with cliches.</p>

<p>But does that one moment defines India''s entire campaign at the World Cup? Not at least for Gambhir, whose 97 in the final was priceless as he weathered the initial storm after Sehwag and Tendulkar''s dismissal.</p>

<p>"High time media learns that," Gambhir told PTI after his tweet on how the World Cup was won by a team not an individual, went viral on the day.</p>

<p>Nehra, whose life in Goa these days, is far removed from social media remembers the funny side of April 2.</p>

<p>"Even if I forget the World Cup final, I can't forget April 2. It''s my marriage anniversary today. So you think my wife would let me forget the date. We completed 11 years of marriage today and nine years of the World Cup. So 11 plus 9 is 20 and we are in 2020," he starts laughing.</p>

<p>On a serious note, he remembers his performance against Pakistan.</p>

<p>"I got injured but it was a great match. Obviously, you feel bad if you can't play the final but April 2 is the best day of my life, our lives. We didn''t sleep that night.</p>

<p>"I think, in my room, there was Bhajji, Zak, Munna (Munaf) and friends from ICC like Dheeraj (Delhi Capitals CEO Dheeraj Malhotra who was an ICC official at that time). I ordered 40 omelettes for breakfast after we had a ball the whole night," Nehra remembers.</p>

<p>Harbhajan agrees with Gambhir that it was a team effort.</p>

<p>"Zak''s performance against England. We would have lost that match had he not bowled and got a tie for us. Yuvi''s tournament and that knock against Australia. Sachin in the semi-finals.</p>

<p>"Gautam and Mahi in the finals. You look around and you will find significant contributions," Harbhajan recollected.</p>

<p>That was the only day, he says, he got emotional on the field of play.</p>

<p>"I don't think I have ever shed tears on the ground. The day was such. But then when I think back, one thing strikes me.</p>

<p>"You can check the scoreboard but those XI players never played another match together in India colours. Never again and I don't know why? I don''t have an answer," he said.</p>

<p>"Very soon, the preparation for 2015 started but that team couldn't be kept together for two years. We never played together again," he recalled.</p>


For the reticent Gautam Gambhir, India''s 2011 World Cup triumph was a journey of 20-odd people, not one freeze-frame moment that social media makes it look every year on this very day.

For the reticent Gautam Gambhir, India''s 2011 World Cup triumph was a journey of 20-odd people, not one freeze-frame moment that social media makes it look every year on this very day. Harbhajan Singh can't fathom why those 11 players never played as a team in a single international game after that. Ashish Nehra is not a man with too many regrets as he missed the final with a finger fracture but April 2 is a day which better half Rushma ensures that he "better not forget". They were heroes in one of the most glorious chapters in Indian cricket and they all cherish that even though lives and careers have gone in different directions in the past nine years. And what about him? Well, Mahendra Singh Dhoni was a recluse then and remains a recluse now, unbelievably guarded, even as the speculation on his future has come to a halt with people, for a change, discussing implications of the COVID-19 more. Sachin Tendulkar, since then, has retired but is no less revered by one and all who can still watch the 46-year-old pad up even if it''s for five minutes in a charity game. The man who carried him on his shoulders, Virat Kohli, has taken Tendulkar''s place as world cricket''s premier batsman with a game that brings thousands into the stadium. Zaheer Khan has settled into a nice post-retirement life with some franchise coaching as well as donning the role of an analyst while S Sreesanth, after all the taint, shame and horror of match-fixing, maybe just hoping to don the Kerala jersey one last time. "Dhoni hits a six, India wins the World Cup," is among the most famous lines spoken on air by Ravi Shastri, whose commentary otherwise was littered with cliches. But does that one moment defines India''s entire campaign at the World Cup? Not at least for Gambhir, whose 97 in the final was priceless as he weathered the initial storm after Sehwag and Tendulkar''s dismissal. "High time media learns that," Gambhir told PTI after his tweet on how the World Cup was won by a team not an individual, went viral on the day. Nehra, whose life in Goa these days, is far removed from social media remembers the funny side of April 2. "Even if I forget the World Cup final, I can't forget April 2. It''s my marriage anniversary today. So you think my wife would let me forget the date. We completed 11 years of marriage today and nine years of the World Cup. So 11 plus 9 is 20 and we are in 2020," he starts laughing. On a serious note, he remembers his performance against Pakistan. "I got injured but it was a great match. Obviously, you feel bad if you can't play the final but April 2 is the best day of my life, our lives. We didn''t sleep that night. "I think, in my room, there was Bhajji, Zak, Munna (Munaf) and friends from ICC like Dheeraj (Delhi Capitals CEO Dheeraj Malhotra who was an ICC official at that time). I ordered 40 omelettes for breakfast after we had a ball the whole night," Nehra remembers. Harbhajan agrees with Gambhir that it was a team effort. "Zak''s performance against England. We would have lost that match had he not bowled and got a tie for us. Yuvi''s tournament and that knock against Australia. Sachin in the semi-finals. "Gautam and Mahi in the finals. You look around and you will find significant contributions," Harbhajan recollected. That was the only day, he says, he got emotional on the field of play. "I don't think I have ever shed tears on the ground. The day was such. But then when I think back, one thing strikes me. "You can check the scoreboard but those XI players never played another match together in India colours. Never again and I don't know why? I don''t have an answer," he said. "Very soon, the preparation for 2015 started but that team couldn't be kept together for two years. We never played together again," he recalled.

WC 2011: More than a ''6'' for one, XI that never played again for other, marriage anniversary for 3rd

<p>Sport is now the last thing on Harbhajan Singh's mind and as the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, the cricketer is spending time tracking updates on the unprecedented crisis and hoping that this too shall pass.</p>

<p>Like all others, the veteran spinner is with his family (wife Geeta and daughter Hinaya) in Mumbai, hoping that scientists and doctors would make a breakthrough to tackle pandemic that has claimed more than 20,000 lives.</p>

<p>"You see life from a completely different perspective in these times of crisis. Sport is farthest from your mind at this point in time. Now that I am home, I am spending most of my time reading anything and everything about COVID-19," Harbhajan told PTI on Wednesday.</p>

<p>So what exactly does he read? "I try to read every authentic piece of information available. All updates provided by the government about the current situation. And yes, most importantly, I try to read and find out what kind of breakthrough scientists, biologists and doctors are making.</p>

<p>"You need to keep your spirits up and be self-motivated in these trying times. Any positive information lifts your spirits," the 39-year-old said.</p>

<p>Harbhajan was in Chennai at the CSK pre-season camp when the IPL got postponed. While this is a forced break from his busy schedule, which also includes commentary, he is getting to spend some precious time with his wife and daughter.</p>

<p>"Me and my wife do yoga together in the morning. We are now taking time out to play scrabble and darts in the evening. At times, we watch a movie together," he said.</p>

<p>The best part is spending time with his three-year-old daughter, playing with her.</p>

<p>"The break has given me an opportunity to spend quality time with Hinaya. It's really joyful when I get to play with her. It lifts my spirit. Right now all I want is everybody to be safe," he added.</p>


Sport is now the last thing on Harbhajan Singh's mind and as the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, the cricketer is spending time tracking updates on the unprecedented crisis and hoping that this too shall pass.

Sport is now the last thing on Harbhajan Singh's mind and as the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, the cricketer is spending time tracking updates on the unprecedented crisis and hoping that this too shall pass. Like all others, the veteran spinner is with his family (wife Geeta and daughter Hinaya) in Mumbai, hoping that scientists and doctors would make a breakthrough to tackle pandemic that has claimed more than 20,000 lives. "You see life from a completely different perspective in these times of crisis. Sport is farthest from your mind at this point in time. Now that I am home, I am spending most of my time reading anything and everything about COVID-19," Harbhajan told PTI on Wednesday. So what exactly does he read? "I try to read every authentic piece of information available. All updates provided by the government about the current situation. And yes, most importantly, I try to read and find out what kind of breakthrough scientists, biologists and doctors are making. "You need to keep your spirits up and be self-motivated in these trying times. Any positive information lifts your spirits," the 39-year-old said. Harbhajan was in Chennai at the CSK pre-season camp when the IPL got postponed. While this is a forced break from his busy schedule, which also includes commentary, he is getting to spend some precious time with his wife and daughter. "Me and my wife do yoga together in the morning. We are now taking time out to play scrabble and darts in the evening. At times, we watch a movie together," he said. The best part is spending time with his three-year-old daughter, playing with her. "The break has given me an opportunity to spend quality time with Hinaya. It's really joyful when I get to play with her. It lifts my spirit. Right now all I want is everybody to be safe," he added.

Most of my time now is spent in tracking updates on COVID-19, says Harbhajan

<p>The 2008 India's tour of Australia which was infamously rocked by the Monkeygate episode, which put a black spot in the relationship between two cricketing giants. The verbal tussle between Harbhajan Singh and Andrew Symonds had put the entire series in jeopardy. While Ricky Ponting is hailed as one of the most successful captains of all time, the former Aussie skipper revealed that the 'Monkeygate' scandal was the lowest point in his career as a captain.</p>

<p>“We all felt let down by the end result (of the Monkeygate controversy). The fact that it got in the way of the way we played our cricket for the next Test match was probably the most disappointing thing,” Ponting told on a podcast conducted by a leading media outlet.</p>

<p>Ponting further said that Australia were heavy favourites to win the Perth Test but lost it which made the entire environment in and out of the Australian dressing room worse.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/guys-wash-your-hands-kl-rahul-reminds-shreyas-iyer-hardik-pandya-about-health-advisory-on-coronavirus-287159">'Guys, wash your hands' - KL Rahul reminds Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya about health advisory on coronavirus</a></strong></p>

<p>“So we go over there and India at Perth is game we expect to win and then we lost the match and after that, the next few days things just got worse and worse,” Ponting said.</p>

<h2><strong>"Monkeygate was probably the lowest"</strong></h2>

<p>“Monkeygate was probably the lowest (point in career as captain). Losing the 2005 Ashes series was tough but I was in full control of that. But I wasn’t in full control of what happened during the Monkeygate thing,” he added.</p>

<p><img alt="Harbhajan Singh, Ricky Ponting (Photo: AFP)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cc30263e-4b9f-4ae1-b6e4-c654fecf50c4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_Hkg982255_0.jpg" /></p>

<p>The former Aussie skipper then revealed that the Monkeygate controversy was a low point in his career because the entire controversy surrounding the episode got dragged on for long.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/coronavirus-pandemic-bcci-looking-to-conduct-ipl-2020-in-july-september-window-287140">Coronavirus pandemic: BCCI looking to conduct IPL 2020 in July-September window</a></strong></p>

<p>“It was a low point and also because it dragged on for so long. I remember coming off the ground during the Adelaide Test match and speaking to Cricket Australia officials about the case because the hearing was at the end of the Adelaide Test match,” Ponting said.</p>

<p>However, Ponting has already said it several times that he has cleared any remaining rift with Harbhajan, Sachin Tendulkar and Anil Kumble during his stint in the Indian Premier League with Mumbai Indians.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The 2008 India's tour of Australia which was infamously rocked by the Monkeygate episode, which put a black spot in the relationship between two cricketing giants.

The 2008 India's tour of Australia which was infamously rocked by the Monkeygate episode, which put a black spot in the relationship between two cricketing giants. The verbal tussle between Harbhajan Singh and Andrew Symonds had put the entire series in jeopardy. While Ricky Ponting is hailed as one of the most successful captains of all time, the former Aussie skipper revealed that the 'Monkeygate' scandal was the lowest point in his career as a captain. “We all felt let down by the end result (of the Monkeygate controversy). The fact that it got in the way of the way we played our cricket for the next Test match was probably the most disappointing thing,” Ponting told on a podcast conducted by a leading media outlet. Ponting further said that Australia were heavy favourites to win the Perth Test but lost it which made the entire environment in and out of the Australian dressing room worse. ALSO READ: 'Guys, wash your hands' - KL Rahul reminds Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya about health advisory on coronavirus “So we go over there and India at Perth is game we expect to win and then we lost the match and after that, the next few days things just got worse and worse,” Ponting said. "Monkeygate was probably the lowest" “Monkeygate was probably the lowest (point in career as captain). Losing the 2005 Ashes series was tough but I was in full control of that. But I wasn’t in full control of what happened during the Monkeygate thing,” he added. The former Aussie skipper then revealed that the Monkeygate controversy was a low point in his career because the entire controversy surrounding the episode got dragged on for long. ALSO READ: Coronavirus pandemic: BCCI looking to conduct IPL 2020 in July-September window “It was a low point and also because it dragged on for so long. I remember coming off the ground during the Adelaide Test match and speaking to Cricket Australia officials about the case because the hearing was at the end of the Adelaide Test match,” Ponting said. However, Ponting has already said it several times that he has cleared any remaining rift with Harbhajan, Sachin Tendulkar and Anil Kumble during his stint in the Indian Premier League with Mumbai Indians.

'Monkeygate was probably the lowest' - Ricky Ponting reveals lowest point of his career

<p>Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh is all set to make his Bollywood debut. The spinner is all set to make his debut in a film called 'Friendship' which is slated to release later this year. The first look of the film was unveiled on social media recently.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Film trade analyst Ramesh Bala also shared the poster and tweeted, "For the first time in Indian cinema. Indian cricketer @harbhajan_singh will be playing lead role in the upcoming #Friendship Movie. This "2020" is Will be Unexpected. And its going to Spin WorldWide (sic)."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">For the first time in Indian cinema.Indian cricketer <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@harbhajan_singh</a> will be playing lead role in the upcoming <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Friendship?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Friendship</a> Movie.This"2020" is Will be Unexpected<br />
And its going to Spin WorldWide.<a href="https://twitter.com/JPRJOHN1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JPRJOHN1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ImSaravanan_P?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImSaravanan_P</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ShamSurya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ShamSurya</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RIAZtheboss?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RIAZtheboss</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SeantoaStudio?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SeantoaStudio</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cinemaasstudio?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cinemaasstudio</a> <a href="https://t.co/hT6N8oH7I1">pic.twitter.com/hT6N8oH7I1</a></p>
— Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) <a href="https://twitter.com/rameshlaus/status/1223939300619800578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The same poster was also shared by the cricketer himself.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The poster doesn't feature Harbhajan though and just has an image of a pair of hands handcuffed with a building in the backdrop.<br />
The film reportedly stars Sri Lankan TV presenter Losliya Mariyanesan who shot to fame after she featured in the third season of Bigg Boss Tamil.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Bhajji, as the cricketer is popularly known, has appeared on several reality TV shows as a guest in the past. He has even made a special appearance in the film, 'Second Hand Husband' which starred his wife, actress Geeta Basra.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Interestingly, Harbhajan is not the only cricketer who will be making his acting debut. &nbsp;Irfan Pathan is also making his big screen debut in Tamil cinema soon. Irfan will be seen essaying a prominent role in a film starring Tamil superstar Vikram. which is tentatively titled 'Vikram 58'.&nbsp;</p>


Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh is all set to make his Bollywood debut. The spinner is all set to make his debut in a film called 'Friendship' which is slated to release later this year.

Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh is all set to make his Bollywood debut. The spinner is all set to make his debut in a film called 'Friendship' which is slated to release later this year. The first look of the film was unveiled on social media recently. Film trade analyst Ramesh Bala also shared the poster and tweeted, "For the first time in Indian cinema. Indian cricketer @harbhajan_singh will be playing lead role in the upcoming #Friendship Movie. This "2020" is Will be Unexpected. And its going to Spin WorldWide (sic)." For the first time in Indian cinema.Indian cricketer @harbhajan_singh will be playing lead role in the upcoming #Friendship Movie.This"2020" is Will be Unexpected And its going to Spin WorldWide.@JPRJOHN1 @ImSaravanan_P #ShamSurya @RIAZtheboss#SeantoaStudio #Cinemaasstudio pic.twitter.com/hT6N8oH7I1 — Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) February 2, 2020 × The same poster was also shared by the cricketer himself. The poster doesn't feature Harbhajan though and just has an image of a pair of hands handcuffed with a building in the backdrop. The film reportedly stars Sri Lankan TV presenter Losliya Mariyanesan who shot to fame after she featured in the third season of Bigg Boss Tamil. Bhajji, as the cricketer is popularly known, has appeared on several reality TV shows as a guest in the past. He has even made a special appearance in the film, 'Second Hand Husband' which starred his wife, actress Geeta Basra. Interestingly, Harbhajan is not the only cricketer who will be making his acting debut. Irfan Pathan is also making his big screen debut in Tamil cinema soon. Irfan will be seen essaying a prominent role in a film starring Tamil superstar Vikram. which is tentatively titled 'Vikram 58'.

Cricketer Harbhajan Singh to make his film debut; first poster revealed

Rahul Dravid turns 47: Let's re-live the era of 'The Wall'

<p>Wishes continue to pour in as former Indian cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/yuvraj-singh-a-journey-of-ups-and-downs-226051">Yuvraj Singh</a> on Thursday celebrates his 38th birthday.</p>

<p>Many cricketers took to Twitter to extend birthday wishes for the 'Southpaw' who was the man of the tournament at the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/throwback-to-icc-cricket-world-cup-2011-india-becomes-first-team-to-win-final-on-home-soil-219190"> ICC World Cup 2011 </a>and played a vital role in India's dream run in the mega event.</p>

<p>"Happy bday Paaji. God bless you. @YUVSTRONG12," Indian skipper Virat Kohli tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy bday Paaji. God bless you. 😊 <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YUVSTRONG12</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1205000662867513344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Yuvi Paaji, many many happy returns of the day. Always remain the way you are, lots of love and good luck @YUVSTRONG12," Shikhar Dhawan tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Yuvi Paaji, many many happy returns of the day. Always remain the way you are, lots of love and good luck 🤗🎉 <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YUVSTRONG12</a> <a href="https://t.co/52pbo0CPKw">pic.twitter.com/52pbo0CPKw</a></p>
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) <a href="https://twitter.com/SDhawan25/status/1204990619875237888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Indian cricketer Suresh Raina called Yuvraj a 'superstar' in his wish.<br />
"Wishing a very happy birthday to superstar @rajinikanth. May you always stay blessed &amp; healthy," Raina tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy birthday Yuvi pa <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YUVSTRONG12</a>. Wishing you an incredible year ahead. May you always keep healthy &amp; happy. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayYuvi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayYuvi</a> <a href="https://t.co/8ZbqncmOiv">pic.twitter.com/8ZbqncmOiv</a></p>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1204953532161503232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Happy birthday brother @YUVSTRONG12 May Waheguru bless you with all the happiness, love, peace and everything you want," Harbhajan Singh tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy birthday brother <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YUVSTRONG12</a> May waheguru bless you with all the happiness,love,peace and everything you want..🤗🤗😘 <a href="https://t.co/3gHK93vCz1">pic.twitter.com/3gHK93vCz1</a></p>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1204975335210504193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>The 38-year-old announced retirement from all forms of cricket on June 10 this year.</p>

<p>In a career that spanned over 304 ODIs, 58 T20Is, and 40 Tests, Yuvraj imprinted his place in the echelons of cricket as a player who could pretty much win matches for his side either through his electric fielding, deceptive bowling or fierce batting.</p>


Wishes continue to pour in as former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh on Thursday celebrates his 38th birthday. Many cricketers took to Twitter to extend birthday wishes for the 'Southpaw' who was the man of the tournament at the ICC World Cup 2011 and played a vital role in India's dream run in the mega event.

Wishes continue to pour in as former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh on Thursday celebrates his 38th birthday. Many cricketers took to Twitter to extend birthday wishes for the 'Southpaw' who was the man of the tournament at the ICC World Cup 2011 and played a vital role in India's dream run in the mega event. "Happy bday Paaji. God bless you. @YUVSTRONG12," Indian skipper Virat Kohli tweeted. Happy bday Paaji. God bless you. 😊 @YUVSTRONG12 — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) December 12, 2019 × "Yuvi Paaji, many many happy returns of the day. Always remain the way you are, lots of love and good luck @YUVSTRONG12," Shikhar Dhawan tweeted. Yuvi Paaji, many many happy returns of the day. Always remain the way you are, lots of love and good luck 🤗🎉 @YUVSTRONG12 pic.twitter.com/52pbo0CPKw — Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) December 12, 2019 × Indian cricketer Suresh Raina called Yuvraj a 'superstar' in his wish. "Wishing a very happy birthday to superstar @rajinikanth. May you always stay blessed & healthy," Raina tweeted. Happy birthday Yuvi pa @YUVSTRONG12. Wishing you an incredible year ahead. May you always keep healthy & happy. #HappyBirthdayYuvi pic.twitter.com/8ZbqncmOiv — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) December 12, 2019 × "Happy birthday brother @YUVSTRONG12 May Waheguru bless you with all the happiness, love, peace and everything you want," Harbhajan Singh tweeted. Happy birthday brother @YUVSTRONG12 May waheguru bless you with all the happiness,love,peace and everything you want..🤗🤗😘 pic.twitter.com/3gHK93vCz1 — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) December 12, 2019 × The 38-year-old announced retirement from all forms of cricket on June 10 this year. In a career that spanned over 304 ODIs, 58 T20Is, and 40 Tests, Yuvraj imprinted his place in the echelons of cricket as a player who could pretty much win matches for his side either through his electric fielding, deceptive bowling or fierce batting.

Cricket fraternity wishes Yuvraj Singh on his 38th birthday!

<p>Popular Indian cricketers Irfan Pathan and Harbhajan Singh are all set to make their acting debut in Tamil cinema!&nbsp;Pathan will be seen essaying a prominent role in the upcoming film, tentatively titled `Vikram 58` and the film will be directed by Ajay Gnanamuthu.<br />
<br />
The seam bowler shared a video on Twitter confirming the news about his acting debut and wrote, "New venture, new challenge looking forward to it," as the caption.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">New venture,new challenge looking forward to it<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/AjayGnanamuthu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AjayGnanamuthu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/iamarunviswa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iamarunviswa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/7screenstudio?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@7screenstudio</a><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/arrahman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@arrahman</a><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/Lalit_SevenScr?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Lalit_SevenScr</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChiyaanVikram58?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChiyaanVikram58</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/sooriaruna?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sooriaruna</a><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/proyuvraaj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@proyuvraaj</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/LokeshJey?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LokeshJey</a><a href="https://twitter.com/VishalSaroee?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VishalSaroee</a> <a href="https://t.co/yZ99OZyJrl">pic.twitter.com/yZ99OZyJrl</a></p>
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1183732885116702720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>On the other hand, Harbhajan will make his debut in a movie titled `Dikkiloona` and it will be directed by Karthik Yogi.<br />
<br />
Pathan has not played an international match since 2012. He last played a T20 game for India in 2012 against Sri Lanka. He was the second Indian bowler after Harbhajan Singh to claim a Test hat-trick.<br />
<br />
Pathan played 29 Test matches and managed to take 100 wickets. He also played 102 ODIs for the side in which he scalped 173 wickets. While Harbhajan last played a match for India in 2016. The spinner has played 236 ODIs, 103 Tests and 28 T20Is for the side.<br />
<br />
He has managed to take 417 wickets in the longest format of the game and has scalped 260 wickets in the 50-over format. The 39-year-old has been actively playing Indian Premier League (IPL) and he currently represents Chennai Super Kings (CSK).&nbsp;</p>


Popular Indian cricketers Irfan Pathan and Harbhajan Singh are all set to make their acting debut in Tamil cinema! Pathan will be seen essaying a prominent role in the upcoming film, tentatively titled `Vikram 58` and the film will be directed by Ajay Gnanamuthu.

Popular Indian cricketers Irfan Pathan and Harbhajan Singh are all set to make their acting debut in Tamil cinema! Pathan will be seen essaying a prominent role in the upcoming film, tentatively titled `Vikram 58` and the film will be directed by Ajay Gnanamuthu. The seam bowler shared a video on Twitter confirming the news about his acting debut and wrote, "New venture, new challenge looking forward to it," as the caption. New venture,new challenge looking forward to it @AjayGnanamuthu @iamarunviswa @7screenstudio @arrahman @Lalit_SevenScr #ChiyaanVikram58 @sooriaruna @proyuvraaj @LokeshJey@VishalSaroee pic.twitter.com/yZ99OZyJrl — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) October 14, 2019 × On the other hand, Harbhajan will make his debut in a movie titled `Dikkiloona` and it will be directed by Karthik Yogi. Pathan has not played an international match since 2012. He last played a T20 game for India in 2012 against Sri Lanka. He was the second Indian bowler after Harbhajan Singh to claim a Test hat-trick. Pathan played 29 Test matches and managed to take 100 wickets. He also played 102 ODIs for the side in which he scalped 173 wickets. While Harbhajan last played a match for India in 2016. The spinner has played 236 ODIs, 103 Tests and 28 T20Is for the side. He has managed to take 417 wickets in the longest format of the game and has scalped 260 wickets in the 50-over format. The 39-year-old has been actively playing Indian Premier League (IPL) and he currently represents Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

Irfan Pathan, Harbhajan Singh to make acting debut in Tamil cinema!

<p>Harbhajan Singh has warned India's stars to expect a sleepless night ahead of their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-key-players-to-watch-out-for-in-india-vs-pakistan-clash-227188">World Cup showdown with arch-rivals Pakistan</a> on Sunday.</p>

<p>India legend Harbhajan knows from bitter experience just how stressful it is to take part in one of the most fierce rivalries in world sport.</p>

<p>The tense political situation between India and Pakistan lends an extra level of animosity whenever the feuding neighbours clash on the cricket pitch.</p>

<p>Their latest meeting comes with the stakes even higher than usual in the World Cup at Old Trafford this weekend and Harbhajan is well aware just how high emotions will be running on the pitch and in the stands.</p>

<p>The 38-year-old spinner played 17 times against Pakistan in a 236-match ODI career for India, including arguably their biggest ever match in the 2011 World Cup semi-finals on home soil in Chandigarh.</p>

<p>It was such a critical fixture that Harbhajan lay awake for hours tossing and turning in bed the night before the game as he visualised the furious response from the Indian public if they lost.</p>

<p>"The memories of that game was I couldn't sleep the night before, even though I tried my best," Harbhajan said.</p>

<p>"I was just worried about what would happen if we lost the game. There were a lot of thoughts coming into my mind.</p>

<p>"People get angry and they can do anything. In the 2003 World Cup we didn't play one game as well as we should have against Australia and people got really angry.</p>

<p>"They were just burning our stuff and throwing stones at our homes. They get a bit emotional."</p>

<p><strong>'Too happy'</strong></p>

<p>Despite his sleep-deprived preparation, Harbhajan took two wickets as India beat Pakistan by 29 runs, with his side going on to win the World Cup for the second time.</p>

<p>Even with a disastrous defeat averted, the adrenaline of victory kept Harbhajan from sleeping the night after the match as well.</p>

<p>"When we won the game I couldn't sleep the next day either because I was too excited and too happy. That's what the Pakistan game does to you," he said.</p>

<p>"Obviously it's one of those games when the pressure is a little more than when you play against England or New Zealand.</p>

<p>"People in both countries want their respective teams to win and if you end up losing the game the people really get up upset and they go on to lose their minds, which is obviously quite bad."</p>

<p>Although they were crushed by Pakistan in the 2017 Champions Trophy final, India have never lost to them at a World Cup, winning at the last two tournaments, and are favourites to extend that run when the rivalry resumes in Manchester.</p>

<p>However, Harbhajan acknowledges India's status brings its own burdens, raising expectations among their passionate fanbase of another win over the old enemy.</p>

<p>"As a player you always want to play well against Pakistan, so there is more pressure. It's not just for Indian players but for Pakistani players as well," he said.</p>

<p>"But there is more pressure on the Indian players because we have a very good record in these games and we don't want to change that."</p>


Harbhajan Singh has warned India's stars to expect a sleepless night ahead of their World Cup showdown with arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday. India legend Harbhajan knows from bitter experience just how stressful it is to take part in one of the most fierce rivalries in world sport.

Harbhajan Singh has warned India's stars to expect a sleepless night ahead of their World Cup showdown with arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday. India legend Harbhajan knows from bitter experience just how stressful it is to take part in one of the most fierce rivalries in world sport. The tense political situation between India and Pakistan lends an extra level of animosity whenever the feuding neighbours clash on the cricket pitch. Their latest meeting comes with the stakes even higher than usual in the World Cup at Old Trafford this weekend and Harbhajan is well aware just how high emotions will be running on the pitch and in the stands. The 38-year-old spinner played 17 times against Pakistan in a 236-match ODI career for India, including arguably their biggest ever match in the 2011 World Cup semi-finals on home soil in Chandigarh. It was such a critical fixture that Harbhajan lay awake for hours tossing and turning in bed the night before the game as he visualised the furious response from the Indian public if they lost. "The memories of that game was I couldn't sleep the night before, even though I tried my best," Harbhajan said. "I was just worried about what would happen if we lost the game. There were a lot of thoughts coming into my mind. "People get angry and they can do anything. In the 2003 World Cup we didn't play one game as well as we should have against Australia and people got really angry. "They were just burning our stuff and throwing stones at our homes. They get a bit emotional." 'Too happy' Despite his sleep-deprived preparation, Harbhajan took two wickets as India beat Pakistan by 29 runs, with his side going on to win the World Cup for the second time. Even with a disastrous defeat averted, the adrenaline of victory kept Harbhajan from sleeping the night after the match as well. "When we won the game I couldn't sleep the next day either because I was too excited and too happy. That's what the Pakistan game does to you," he said. "Obviously it's one of those games when the pressure is a little more than when you play against England or New Zealand. "People in both countries want their respective teams to win and if you end up losing the game the people really get up upset and they go on to lose their minds, which is obviously quite bad." Although they were crushed by Pakistan in the 2017 Champions Trophy final, India have never lost to them at a World Cup, winning at the last two tournaments, and are favourites to extend that run when the rivalry resumes in Manchester. However, Harbhajan acknowledges India's status brings its own burdens, raising expectations among their passionate fanbase of another win over the old enemy. "As a player you always want to play well against Pakistan, so there is more pressure. It's not just for Indian players but for Pakistani players as well," he said. "But there is more pressure on the Indian players because we have a very good record in these games and we don't want to change that."

Harbhajan Singh warns India stars to expect sleepless night as Pakistan loom

<p>Chennai's off-spinner Harbhajan Singh became the third Indian to claim 150 wickets in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Friday.</p>

<p>The bowler achieved the feat in the second qualifier against Delhi at YS&nbsp;Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">150 wickets in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> for <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@harbhajan_singh</a> 👌👌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvDC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvDC</a> <a href="https://t.co/Qne0mUe2ce">pic.twitter.com/Qne0mUe2ce</a></p>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1126871307298041856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Delhi's Amit Mishra and Kolkata's Piyush Chawla are the other two Indians who have taken 150 wickets in the IPL.</p>

<p>Mishra has taken 157 wickets from 147 matches whereas Chawla has taken 150 wickets in 157 matches.</p>

<p>Singh had 148 wickets before the match against Delhi, but the bowler picked up wickets of Shikhar Dhawan and Shrefane Rutherford to reach the feat of 150 wickets.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-defending-champions-chennai-defeat-delhi-to-storm-into-final-217611">Chennai reached the finals of the IPL</a> as they defeated Delhi by six wickets on Friday.</p>

<p>Chasing the score of 148, Chennai were provided with a solid base from both openers Faf Du Plessis and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/grateful-for-the-faith-chennai-team-has-shown-in-me-says-shane-watson-217618">Shane Watson</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both the batsmen recorded 50 plus scores to ease the chase for the team.</p>

<p>Ambati Rayudu and Dwayne Bravo were present at the crease to take the team over the line.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dhoni-credits-bowlers-for-easy-win-over-dc-in-qualifier-2-217616">Chennai</a> will take on Mumbai in the finals of the IPL on Sunday, May 12 in Hyderabad.</p>


Chennai's off-spinner Harbhajan Singh became the third Indian to claim 150 wickets in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Friday. The bowler achieved the feat in the second qualifier against Delhi at YS Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam.

Chennai's off-spinner Harbhajan Singh became the third Indian to claim 150 wickets in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Friday. The bowler achieved the feat in the second qualifier against Delhi at YS Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam. 150 wickets in #VIVOIPL for @harbhajan_singh 👌👌#CSKvDC pic.twitter.com/Qne0mUe2ce — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 10, 2019 × Delhi's Amit Mishra and Kolkata's Piyush Chawla are the other two Indians who have taken 150 wickets in the IPL. Mishra has taken 157 wickets from 147 matches whereas Chawla has taken 150 wickets in 157 matches. Singh had 148 wickets before the match against Delhi, but the bowler picked up wickets of Shikhar Dhawan and Shrefane Rutherford to reach the feat of 150 wickets. Chennai reached the finals of the IPL as they defeated Delhi by six wickets on Friday. Chasing the score of 148, Chennai were provided with a solid base from both openers Faf Du Plessis and Shane Watson. Both the batsmen recorded 50 plus scores to ease the chase for the team. Ambati Rayudu and Dwayne Bravo were present at the crease to take the team over the line. Chennai will take on Mumbai in the finals of the IPL on Sunday, May 12 in Hyderabad.

Harbhajan Singh becomes third Indian to take 150 wickets in the IPL

<p>Chennai spinner Harbhajan Singh's performance in the 12th edition of the Indian Premier League has been the talk of the town.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In almost every game, Harbhajan has given match-winning performances for the defending champions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He picked up three crucial wickets in the opening match against Bangalore and repeated the heroics against Punjab.</p>

<p>The off-spinner, who was an integral part of the Mumbai team, switched to Chennai last season and won the title with the ‘Yellow Brigade’.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked what major difference he feels in the two teams, Singh in an interview to a newspaper said, "I have great respect for MI and they are wonderful this year as well, but the pressure of winning is more there."</p>

<p>"Here in CSK it’s more chilled out, you are expected to win, but it’s not a matter of life and death here,” the seasoned campaigner said," he added.</p>

<p>It will be crucial to see if Harbhajan can stop Jamaican Andre Russell from going berserk when Chennai lock horns with Kolkata on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>


Chennai spinner Harbhajan Singh's performance in the 12th edition of the Indian Premier League has been the talk of the town. In almost every game, Harbhajan has given match-winning performances for the defending champions.

Chennai spinner Harbhajan Singh's performance in the 12th edition of the Indian Premier League has been the talk of the town. In almost every game, Harbhajan has given match-winning performances for the defending champions. He picked up three crucial wickets in the opening match against Bangalore and repeated the heroics against Punjab. The off-spinner, who was an integral part of the Mumbai team, switched to Chennai last season and won the title with the ‘Yellow Brigade’. When asked what major difference he feels in the two teams, Singh in an interview to a newspaper said, "I have great respect for MI and they are wonderful this year as well, but the pressure of winning is more there." "Here in CSK it’s more chilled out, you are expected to win, but it’s not a matter of life and death here,” the seasoned campaigner said," he added. It will be crucial to see if Harbhajan can stop Jamaican Andre Russell from going berserk when Chennai lock horns with Kolkata on Tuesday.

IPL 2019:  Winning 'matter of life and death' at Mumbai than at Chennai, says Harbhajan Singh

<p>Harbhajan Singh dismissed a trio of top batsmen in the Indian Premier League's opener on Saturday before underlining the importance of a finger spinner to India's cause at the upcoming Cricket World Cup.</p>

<p>Playing for champions Chennai, Harbhajan sent back Bangalore&nbsp;skipper Virat Kohli, former South Africa batting mainstay AB de Villiers and England all-rounder Moeen Ali on MA Chidambaram Stadium track that offered significant assistance to the slow bowlers.</p>

<p>Wrist spinners, once considered a luxury for their penchant to bleed runs in the chase for wickets, have taken the limited-overs formats by storm and banished their finger spin cousins to the fringes.</p>

<p>Five of the top 10 spots in the International Cricket Council's rankings for one-day international bowlers are occupied by wrist spinners -- Afghanistan's Rashid Khan, Imran Tahir of South Africa, Indian pair Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal, and England's Adil Rashid.</p>

<p>Harbhajan, who played 103 tests and 236 ODIs for India, said there is a perception that wrist spinners have more chance of success as they possess more variations in their armoury.</p>

<p>"I have played all my cricket as a finger spinner and never complained about it. I did okay, not bad, quite happy with whatever I have achieved," said the 38-year-old, who has taken over 700 wickets in the three formats of international cricket.</p>

<p>"It's come down to the people and their belief whether finger spinners could do the job or not. I feel finger spinners have a role to play provided you back them.</p>

<p>"Of course, spinners also need to back themselves to spin the ball rather than not spinning them. New generation they don't look to spin the ball... As long as you are looking to spin the ball, you are there in the game."</p>

<p>On Saturday, the former India off-spinner's 3-20 spell at the start of the innings left Bangalore reeling and they were eventually bundled out for 70, leaving Mahendra Singh Dhoni's side to win the opening match of the 2019 IPL by seven wickets.</p>

<p>Tahir also picked up three wickets and India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja took two while also taking the catches to dismiss India skipper Kohli and De Villiers.</p>

<p>The success of Chahal and Kuldeep rendered Jadeja and off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin surplus to India's limited-overs requirements but the former has battled back into contention for the May 30 to July 14 World Cup in England and Wales.</p>

<p>"Someone like Ravindra Jadeja, he's always in the game," Harbhajan said of his left-arm spin colleague.</p>

<p>"I don't want to talk way too much about the World Cup but he could be a key member for Team India to win that.</p>

<p>"He's a factor, he bowls, he bats and he's a brilliant fielder. Finger spinners should be given the responsibility, they will deliver it."</p>


Harbhajan Singh dismissed a trio of top batsmen in the Indian Premier League's opener on Saturday before underlining the importance of a finger spinner to India's cause at the upcoming Cricket World Cup.

Harbhajan Singh dismissed a trio of top batsmen in the Indian Premier League's opener on Saturday before underlining the importance of a finger spinner to India's cause at the upcoming Cricket World Cup. Playing for champions Chennai, Harbhajan sent back Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli, former South Africa batting mainstay AB de Villiers and England all-rounder Moeen Ali on MA Chidambaram Stadium track that offered significant assistance to the slow bowlers. Wrist spinners, once considered a luxury for their penchant to bleed runs in the chase for wickets, have taken the limited-overs formats by storm and banished their finger spin cousins to the fringes. Five of the top 10 spots in the International Cricket Council's rankings for one-day international bowlers are occupied by wrist spinners -- Afghanistan's Rashid Khan, Imran Tahir of South Africa, Indian pair Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal, and England's Adil Rashid. Harbhajan, who played 103 tests and 236 ODIs for India, said there is a perception that wrist spinners have more chance of success as they possess more variations in their armoury. "I have played all my cricket as a finger spinner and never complained about it. I did okay, not bad, quite happy with whatever I have achieved," said the 38-year-old, who has taken over 700 wickets in the three formats of international cricket. "It's come down to the people and their belief whether finger spinners could do the job or not. I feel finger spinners have a role to play provided you back them. "Of course, spinners also need to back themselves to spin the ball rather than not spinning them. New generation they don't look to spin the ball... As long as you are looking to spin the ball, you are there in the game." On Saturday, the former India off-spinner's 3-20 spell at the start of the innings left Bangalore reeling and they were eventually bundled out for 70, leaving Mahendra Singh Dhoni's side to win the opening match of the 2019 IPL by seven wickets. Tahir also picked up three wickets and India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja took two while also taking the catches to dismiss India skipper Kohli and De Villiers. The success of Chahal and Kuldeep rendered Jadeja and off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin surplus to India's limited-overs requirements but the former has battled back into contention for the May 30 to July 14 World Cup in England and Wales. "Someone like Ravindra Jadeja, he's always in the game," Harbhajan said of his left-arm spin colleague. "I don't want to talk way too much about the World Cup but he could be a key member for Team India to win that. "He's a factor, he bowls, he bats and he's a brilliant fielder. Finger spinners should be given the responsibility, they will deliver it."

Give finger spinner a role at World Cup, says Harbhajan Singh

<p>Veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh doesn't want India to play Pakistan in the upcoming ODI World Cup in the aftermath of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Pulwama">ghastly terror attack in Pulwama</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Harbhajan said India are strong enough to win the World Cup even if they decide to forfeit the match against Pakistan in Manchester on June 16.</p>

<p>Harbhajan's statement came after the terror attack in Pulwama killed 40 personnel CRPF personnel. Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad had claimed responsibility for the ghastly act.</p>

<p>"India should not play Pakistan in the world Cup. India are powerful enough to win the World Cup without having to play Pakistan," Harbhajan Singh told 'Aaj Tak' news channel.</p>

<p>"This is a difficult time. The attack that has happened, it was unbelievable and it's very wrong. Strict action will surely be taken by the government. When it comes to cricket, I don't think we should have any relations with them otherwise they will keep treating us like this," he added.</p>

<p>Harbhajan said India doesn't need to revive any sort of sporting ties with Pakistan as a mark of respect for the armed forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I don't think India should play the World Cup match against Pakistan. Country comes first and we are all standing behind our country. Cricket or hockey or sports, it should be kept aside because this is a huge thing and repeatedly our soldiers are killed.</p>

<p>"We should stand with our country. Cricket or hockey or any sport, we don't need to play with them," he said.</p>

<p>"We should not keep any kind of ties with Pakistan: we are powerful enough to feed the world on our own. Cricket, sports is not as important. We stand with every member of the defence force. Their sacrifices should no go to waste," Harbhajan said.</p>


Veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh doesn't want India to play Pakistan in the upcoming ODI World Cup in the aftermath of the ghastly terror attack in Pulwama. Harbhajan said India are strong enough to win the World Cup even if they decide to forfeit the match against Pakistan in Manchester on June 16.

Veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh doesn't want India to play Pakistan in the upcoming ODI World Cup in the aftermath of the ghastly terror attack in Pulwama. Harbhajan said India are strong enough to win the World Cup even if they decide to forfeit the match against Pakistan in Manchester on June 16. Harbhajan's statement came after the terror attack in Pulwama killed 40 personnel CRPF personnel. Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad had claimed responsibility for the ghastly act. "India should not play Pakistan in the world Cup. India are powerful enough to win the World Cup without having to play Pakistan," Harbhajan Singh told 'Aaj Tak' news channel. "This is a difficult time. The attack that has happened, it was unbelievable and it's very wrong. Strict action will surely be taken by the government. When it comes to cricket, I don't think we should have any relations with them otherwise they will keep treating us like this," he added. Harbhajan said India doesn't need to revive any sort of sporting ties with Pakistan as a mark of respect for the armed forces. "I don't think India should play the World Cup match against Pakistan. Country comes first and we are all standing behind our country. Cricket or hockey or sports, it should be kept aside because this is a huge thing and repeatedly our soldiers are killed. "We should stand with our country. Cricket or hockey or any sport, we don't need to play with them," he said. "We should not keep any kind of ties with Pakistan: we are powerful enough to feed the world on our own. Cricket, sports is not as important. We stand with every member of the defence force. Their sacrifices should no go to waste," Harbhajan said.

India shouldn't play Pakistan in World Cup, says Harbhajan Singh

<p>Amid calls for boycott, the clamour for tickets for the marquee ODI World Cup clash between <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-expects-india-pakistan-game-to-go-through-despite-tensions-198455">India and Pakistan</a> in Manchester on June 16 has reached a crescendo, with more than 400,000 applicants for the 25,000 seater Old Trafford stadium.</p>

<p>Top India cricketers like Harbhajan Singh has called for a boycott of the Pakistan group league encounter while veterans such as Chetan Chauhan wants India to put pressure on ICC by threatening to boycott the whole event.</p>

<p>ICC World Cup tournament director Steve Elworthy, during a promotional event in London, said that demand for tickets for the Indo-Pak group league clash is way more than Australia vs England game or the final at the Lord's.</p>

<p>"That particular game (India vs Pakistan), we had over 400,000 applications for tickets, which is an incredible number. The stadium (Old Trafford) only holds 25,000 people.</p>

<p>So there are a number of disappointed people. That's just locally, but (there is also) the audience globally," Elworthy was quoted as saying by ESPN Cricinfo.</p>

<p>In fact, the former South African pacer then provided the numbers which is an indication that how much the match means for world cricket's governing body.</p>

<p>"To put that (number) in perspective, England vs Australia was around 230-240,000. And the final was around about 260-270,000 applications for tickets. So that gives you a bit of perspective for the demand for this match (India v Pakistan). It's a big game. They could end up playing each other in the final (too), you never know."</p>

<p>ICC Chief Executive David Richardson, in a statement to PTI on Tuesday, had said that "there is no indication that any (of the) matches at the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup will not go ahead as planned," even as they monitor the situation.&nbsp;</p>


Amid calls for boycott, the clamour for tickets for the marquee ODI World Cup clash between India and Pakistan in Manchester on June 16 has reached a crescendo, with more than 400,000 applicants for the 25,000 seater Old Trafford stadium.

Amid calls for boycott, the clamour for tickets for the marquee ODI World Cup clash between India and Pakistan in Manchester on June 16 has reached a crescendo, with more than 400,000 applicants for the 25,000 seater Old Trafford stadium. Top India cricketers like Harbhajan Singh has called for a boycott of the Pakistan group league encounter while veterans such as Chetan Chauhan wants India to put pressure on ICC by threatening to boycott the whole event. ICC World Cup tournament director Steve Elworthy, during a promotional event in London, said that demand for tickets for the Indo-Pak group league clash is way more than Australia vs England game or the final at the Lord's. "That particular game (India vs Pakistan), we had over 400,000 applications for tickets, which is an incredible number. The stadium (Old Trafford) only holds 25,000 people. So there are a number of disappointed people. That's just locally, but (there is also) the audience globally," Elworthy was quoted as saying by ESPN Cricinfo. In fact, the former South African pacer then provided the numbers which is an indication that how much the match means for world cricket's governing body. "To put that (number) in perspective, England vs Australia was around 230-240,000. And the final was around about 260-270,000 applications for tickets. So that gives you a bit of perspective for the demand for this match (India v Pakistan). It's a big game. They could end up playing each other in the final (too), you never know." ICC Chief Executive David Richardson, in a statement to PTI on Tuesday, had said that "there is no indication that any (of the) matches at the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup will not go ahead as planned," even as they monitor the situation.

World Cup 2019: We had 4 lakh ticket applicants for India-Pak match, claims event director

<p>Andrew Symonds says India spinner Harbhajan Singh "broke down crying" while making peace after the infamous 'monkeygate' episode had sent the former Australian all-rounder into a downward spiral.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A decade on from the ugly incident in the 2008 Sydney Test, where Harbhajan was accused of calling Symonds a "monkey".</p>

<p>However, the Australian said they emotionally called a truce three years later and&nbsp;buried the hatchet while turning up for Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/australia-india-the-classic-rivalry-here-are-5-memorable-test-clashes-181903">Australia-India, the classic rivalry: Here are 5 memorable Test clashes</a></strong></p>

<p>"...He actually broke down crying, and I could just see that was a huge weight off his shoulders, he had to get rid of it. We shook hands and I gave him a hug and said: 'Mate, it's all good. It's dealt with'," Symonds told 'Fox Sports'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Harbhajan, who at the time denied any wrongdoing, was suspended for three matches. But the ban was overturned after the visiting team, feeling hard-done-by, lodged a protest in what was an all-time low in India-Australia cricket relations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Symonds' recent revelation,&nbsp;Harbhajan called him "a good fiction writer".</p>

<p>He tweeted, "I thought he was a very good cricketer but Symonds has turned out to be a good fiction writer - he sold a story then (2008) and he is ‘selling a story’ now (2018)."</p>

<p>He also wrote, "Mate, the world has come of age in these 10 years and it’s time you also grew up."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I thought he was a very good cricketer but Symonds has turned out to be a good fiction writer - he sold a story then (2008) and he is ‘selling a story’ now (2018). Mate, the world has come of age in these 10 years and it’s time you also grew up</p>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1074275607561809920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Sydney Test 2018 is remembered as one of the most controversial and spiteful Test matches played between the two nations,</p>

<p>It was dubbed the "Monkeygate" affair, marred by wrong umpiring decisions and accusations of poor sportsmanship.</p>

<p>The infamous incident surfaced again when Symonds revealed recently while talking to a sports channel.</p>

<p>He said, "We go to a very wealthy man's place for a barbecue, drinks and dinner one night and the whole team's there and he had guests there, and Harbhajan said 'mate, can I speak to you for a minute out in the garden out the front'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He goes, 'look, I've got to say sorry to you for what I did to you in Sydney. I apologise, I hope I didn't cause you, your family, your friends too much harm and I really apologise for what I said, I shouldn't have said it'."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Symonds, who was born in England with one of his parents of West Indian background, has previously recounted how his life went downhill after the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The burly all-rounder, who felt let down by the system, started drinking heavily and in June 2009 his Cricket Australia contract was withdrawn after he was sent home from the World T20 following the latest in a series of alcohol-related indiscretions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I suppose this would be the moment where my whole persona to cricket changed," Symonds, who is commentating on India's current tour of Australia, said of 'monkeygate'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I didn't realise how powerful one player, one incident, how much money was at stake and the ramifications."</p>


Andrew Symonds says India spinner Harbhajan Singh "broke down crying" while making peace after the infamous 'monkeygate' episode had sent the former Australian all-rounder into a downward spiral.

Andrew Symonds says India spinner Harbhajan Singh "broke down crying" while making peace after the infamous 'monkeygate' episode had sent the former Australian all-rounder into a downward spiral. A decade on from the ugly incident in the 2008 Sydney Test, where Harbhajan was accused of calling Symonds a "monkey". However, the Australian said they emotionally called a truce three years later and buried the hatchet while turning up for Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League. Also read: Australia-India, the classic rivalry: Here are 5 memorable Test clashes "...He actually broke down crying, and I could just see that was a huge weight off his shoulders, he had to get rid of it. We shook hands and I gave him a hug and said: 'Mate, it's all good. It's dealt with'," Symonds told 'Fox Sports'. Harbhajan, who at the time denied any wrongdoing, was suspended for three matches. But the ban was overturned after the visiting team, feeling hard-done-by, lodged a protest in what was an all-time low in India-Australia cricket relations. After Symonds' recent revelation, Harbhajan called him "a good fiction writer". He tweeted, "I thought he was a very good cricketer but Symonds has turned out to be a good fiction writer - he sold a story then (2008) and he is ‘selling a story’ now (2018)." He also wrote, "Mate, the world has come of age in these 10 years and it’s time you also grew up." I thought he was a very good cricketer but Symonds has turned out to be a good fiction writer - he sold a story then (2008) and he is ‘selling a story’ now (2018). Mate, the world has come of age in these 10 years and it’s time you also grew up — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) December 16, 2018 × The Sydney Test 2018 is remembered as one of the most controversial and spiteful Test matches played between the two nations, It was dubbed the "Monkeygate" affair, marred by wrong umpiring decisions and accusations of poor sportsmanship. The infamous incident surfaced again when Symonds revealed recently while talking to a sports channel. He said, "We go to a very wealthy man's place for a barbecue, drinks and dinner one night and the whole team's there and he had guests there, and Harbhajan said 'mate, can I speak to you for a minute out in the garden out the front'. "He goes, 'look, I've got to say sorry to you for what I did to you in Sydney. I apologise, I hope I didn't cause you, your family, your friends too much harm and I really apologise for what I said, I shouldn't have said it'." Symonds, who was born in England with one of his parents of West Indian background, has previously recounted how his life went downhill after the incident. The burly all-rounder, who felt let down by the system, started drinking heavily and in June 2009 his Cricket Australia contract was withdrawn after he was sent home from the World T20 following the latest in a series of alcohol-related indiscretions. "I suppose this would be the moment where my whole persona to cricket changed," Symonds, who is commentating on India's current tour of Australia, said of 'monkeygate'. "I didn't realise how powerful one player, one incident, how much money was at stake and the ramifications."

Harbhajan 'broke down' while 'apologising' for monkeygate: Symonds

<p>From 10 wickets in an innings to bowling with a broken jaw, Anil Kumble is regarded as one of the finest spinners the country has ever produced.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He is only the second bowler in cricket to claim all ten wickets in an inning of a Test match. He achieved this feat against Pakistan at New Delhi.</p>

<p>Today, on the occasion of his 48th birthday, several former and present cricketers including&nbsp;Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh and Sachin Tendulkar, took to Twitter to post their wishes for Kumble.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happiest birthday to one of India’s greatest ever match winners, a man who defined grit and courage. Those toe-crushing yorkers to tail-enders are something even pace bowlers struggle to execute. Have a great &amp; jumbo life ahead <a href="https://twitter.com/anilkumble1074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anilkumble1074</a> bhai ! <a href="https://t.co/RN5jXb6onl">pic.twitter.com/RN5jXb6onl</a></p>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1052419217524449281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">To a dear friend and a champion. Happy Birthday, <a href="https://twitter.com/anilkumble1074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anilkumble1074</a>! <a href="https://t.co/MqAhsNDZIy">pic.twitter.com/MqAhsNDZIy</a></p>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1052449962582298624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy birthday to my idol, and my teammate, and an inspiration! Hope you have a lifetime of success in every path you take! Have a great day ahead :) love always Anil bhai <a href="https://twitter.com/anilkumble1074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anilkumble1074</a> <a href="https://t.co/6VxuwbXuGU">pic.twitter.com/6VxuwbXuGU</a></p>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1052427757521694721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Birthday <a href="https://twitter.com/anilkumble1074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anilkumble1074</a> - On the occasion of the former Captain's birthday, we look back at one of his most iconic Test match spells 🎂😎<br />
Watch 👉👉▶️ <a href="https://t.co/ASlc379aDp">https://t.co/ASlc379aDp</a> <a href="https://t.co/cyp1tcJf6J">pic.twitter.com/cyp1tcJf6J</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1052446145933443073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">From being room mates to having our names jumbled up on international tours, it has been a pleasure to have known you and have played with a fighter Cricketer like you.KUMBLE'S Many happy returns of the day, <a href="https://twitter.com/anilkumble1074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anilkumble1074</a> <a href="https://t.co/Dex6SIvA44">pic.twitter.com/Dex6SIvA44</a></p>
— VINOD KAMBLI (@vinodkambli349) <a href="https://twitter.com/vinodkambli349/status/1052427903064055809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">619 Test wickets 🔴<br />
337 ODI wickets ⚪️<br />
One of two men to take 10 wickets in a Test innings 💪<br />
<br />
Happy birthday to India's top international wicket-taker, <a href="https://twitter.com/anilkumble1074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anilkumble1074</a>! <a href="https://t.co/gZrst7JsC3">pic.twitter.com/gZrst7JsC3</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1052393766105927681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>In the limited-overs format, Kumble has 337 ODI wickets and 57 T20 wickets.</p>

<p>He played 132 Tests and 271 ODIs before he quit the game in 2008 His 619 Test wickets. Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan (800) leads the pack while Australian legend Shane Warne is second with 708 Test wickets.</p>


From 10 wickets in an innings to bowling with a broken jaw, Anil Kumble is regarded as one of the finest spinners the country has ever produced. He is only the second bowler in cricket to claim all ten wickets in an inning of a Test match.

From 10 wickets in an innings to bowling with a broken jaw, Anil Kumble is regarded as one of the finest spinners the country has ever produced. He is only the second bowler in cricket to claim all ten wickets in an inning of a Test match. He achieved this feat against Pakistan at New Delhi. Today, on the occasion of his 48th birthday, several former and present cricketers including Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh and Sachin Tendulkar, took to Twitter to post their wishes for Kumble. Happiest birthday to one of India’s greatest ever match winners, a man who defined grit and courage. Those toe-crushing yorkers to tail-enders are something even pace bowlers struggle to execute. Have a great & jumbo life ahead @anilkumble1074 bhai ! pic.twitter.com/RN5jXb6onl — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) October 17, 2018 × To a dear friend and a champion. Happy Birthday, @anilkumble1074! pic.twitter.com/MqAhsNDZIy — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) October 17, 2018 × Happy birthday to my idol, and my teammate, and an inspiration! Hope you have a lifetime of success in every path you take! Have a great day ahead :) love always Anil bhai @anilkumble1074 pic.twitter.com/6VxuwbXuGU — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) October 17, 2018 × Happy Birthday @anilkumble1074 - On the occasion of the former Captain's birthday, we look back at one of his most iconic Test match spells 🎂😎 Watch 👉👉▶️ https://t.co/ASlc379aDp pic.twitter.com/cyp1tcJf6J — BCCI (@BCCI) October 17, 2018 × From being room mates to having our names jumbled up on international tours, it has been a pleasure to have known you and have played with a fighter Cricketer like you.KUMBLE'S Many happy returns of the day, @anilkumble1074 pic.twitter.com/Dex6SIvA44 — VINOD KAMBLI (@vinodkambli349) October 17, 2018 × 619 Test wickets 🔴 337 ODI wickets ⚪️ One of two men to take 10 wickets in a Test innings 💪 Happy birthday to India's top international wicket-taker, @anilkumble1074! pic.twitter.com/gZrst7JsC3 — ICC (@ICC) October 17, 2018 × In the limited-overs format, Kumble has 337 ODI wickets and 57 T20 wickets. He played 132 Tests and 271 ODIs before he quit the game in 2008 His 619 Test wickets. Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan (800) leads the pack while Australian legend Shane Warne is second with 708 Test wickets.

Wishes pour in on Twitter as Anil Kumble turns 48

<p>Veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh has not been included in India's squad for quite&nbsp;a long time but that hasn't deterred him from being in headlines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With his humour and comments on social media platforms, the 38-year-old is surely setting the stage on fire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, Shikhar Dhawan, who is also out of action from India's test squad against Windies, shared a picture on his official Instagram account.</p>

<p>In the image, Dhawan is relaxing on a chair with the caption "Sheeran wale rob yaaran saanu hi faban ge #tuesdaymorning #potd".</p>

<p>After seeing the picture, Harbhajan gave him a new name by calling the Indian opener 'Daaku'.</p>

<p>In reply, Shikhar Dhawan rechristened Harbhajan Singh by calling him 'Jagga Jatt'.</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bos1gT9BZ6A/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Sheeran wale rob yaaran saanu hi faban ge 👊🏼 #tuesdaymorning #potd</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/shikhardofficial/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Shikhar Dhawan</a> (@shikhardofficial) on <time datetime="2018-10-09T05:26:08+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Oct 8, 2018 at 10:26pm PDT</time></p>
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<img alt="Harbhajan Singh and Shikhar Dhawan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d949bb06-0253-4402-bd07-7992292f650d" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Dhawan%20and%20Harbhajan.jpg" /></p>

<p>Harbhajan has played 103 Tests for India taking 417 wickets at an average of 32.46. In the limited-overs format, Harbhajan has 269 ODI wickets and 25 T20I wickets.&nbsp;</p>


Veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh has not been included in India's squad for quite a long time but that hasn't deterred him from being in headlines. With his humour and comments on social media platforms, the 38-year-old is surely setting the stage on fire.

Veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh has not been included in India's squad for quite a long time but that hasn't deterred him from being in headlines. With his humour and comments on social media platforms, the 38-year-old is surely setting the stage on fire. Recently, Shikhar Dhawan, who is also out of action from India's test squad against Windies, shared a picture on his official Instagram account. In the image, Dhawan is relaxing on a chair with the caption "Sheeran wale rob yaaran saanu hi faban ge #tuesdaymorning #potd". After seeing the picture, Harbhajan gave him a new name by calling the Indian opener 'Daaku'. In reply, Shikhar Dhawan rechristened Harbhajan Singh by calling him 'Jagga Jatt'. View this post on Instagram Sheeran wale rob yaaran saanu hi faban ge 👊🏼 #tuesdaymorning #potd A post shared by Shikhar Dhawan (@shikhardofficial) on Oct 8, 2018 at 10:26pm PDT × Harbhajan has played 103 Tests for India taking 417 wickets at an average of 32.46. In the limited-overs format, Harbhajan has 269 ODI wickets and 25 T20I wickets.

Harbhajan calls Shikhar Dhawan 'daaku'

<p>West Indies lost the first Test to India by an innings and 272 runs in Gujarat's Rajkot.</p>

<p>While India won the match inside three days, registering their biggest innings win in Test cricket, the performance of Windies players was below par and was heavily criticised.</p>

<p>Among the critics, India's veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh described the Windies team as not even good enough to compete against the elite teams in Ranji Trophy.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">With all due respect to West Indies Cricket but I have a question for u all...will this west Indies team qualify for Ranji quarters from the plate group? Elite se to nahin hoga 🧐 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsWI</a></p>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1048157223250276352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The tweet didn't go well with many cricketing fans and former West Indies cricketer Tino Best.</p>

<p>Best was not too impressed with Harbhajan's tweet and hit back by taking a pot shot at India's performance during the Test series in England, where they lost the five-match series 1-4.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Hey bro didn’t see these cocky tweets vs England 🤷🏾‍♂️ .... but anyhow the young men will learn 🙏🏾</p>
— Tino95 (@tinobest) <a href="https://twitter.com/tinobest/status/1048418985757347840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Some Indian fans too were left outraged by Harbhajan's comments.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">If English ex cricketgers had made such comments about our teams the previous tours in 2011 and 2014, how would you have reacted? Disrespectful</p>
— Abhinav Misra (@princeshwar) <a href="https://twitter.com/princeshwar/status/1048157666646925312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">With all due respect... this kind of behaviour is the reason you are sitting here and tweeting instead of playing. Very Disrespectful.</p>
— Kiran Bhat (@ItsBhatOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/ItsBhatOfficial/status/1048158237806055424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This was the exact feeling England were having when we were out there playing against them in their home ground! Don't be arrogant for no reason! Forgot that you are a sportsman?? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvWI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/sportsmanship?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#sportsmanship</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/staygrounded?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#staygrounded</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/stayhumble?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#stayhumble</a></p>
— Anshul Gupta (@AnshulGuptaLko) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnshulGuptaLko/status/1048159532805971969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">How about try to be a little respectful??Also WI has won a test match in Eng &amp; UAE(vs Pak) each. They are missing few of their key players in this match.</p>
— Abhimanyu (@abhimanyuk090) <a href="https://twitter.com/abhimanyuk090/status/1048163999194333186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The tourists were dismissed for 196 runs, in their second innings, early in the final session while following on, to trail the two-match series 0-1.</p>


West Indies lost the first Test to India by an innings and 272 runs in Gujarat's Rajkot. While India won the match inside three days, registering their biggest innings win in Test cricket, the performance of Windies players was below par and was heavily criticised.

West Indies lost the first Test to India by an innings and 272 runs in Gujarat's Rajkot. While India won the match inside three days, registering their biggest innings win in Test cricket, the performance of Windies players was below par and was heavily criticised. Among the critics, India's veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh described the Windies team as not even good enough to compete against the elite teams in Ranji Trophy. With all due respect to West Indies Cricket but I have a question for u all...will this west Indies team qualify for Ranji quarters from the plate group? Elite se to nahin hoga 🧐 #INDvsWI — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) October 5, 2018 × The tweet didn't go well with many cricketing fans and former West Indies cricketer Tino Best. Best was not too impressed with Harbhajan's tweet and hit back by taking a pot shot at India's performance during the Test series in England, where they lost the five-match series 1-4. Hey bro didn’t see these cocky tweets vs England 🤷🏾‍♂️ .... but anyhow the young men will learn 🙏🏾 — Tino95 (@tinobest) October 6, 2018 × Some Indian fans too were left outraged by Harbhajan's comments. If English ex cricketgers had made such comments about our teams the previous tours in 2011 and 2014, how would you have reacted? Disrespectful — Abhinav Misra (@princeshwar) October 5, 2018 × With all due respect... this kind of behaviour is the reason you are sitting here and tweeting instead of playing. Very Disrespectful. — Kiran Bhat (@ItsBhatOfficial) October 5, 2018 × This was the exact feeling England were having when we were out there playing against them in their home ground! Don't be arrogant for no reason! Forgot that you are a sportsman?? #INDvWI #sportsmanship #staygrounded #stayhumble — Anshul Gupta (@AnshulGuptaLko) October 5, 2018 × How about try to be a little respectful??Also WI has won a test match in Eng & UAE(vs Pak) each. They are missing few of their key players in this match. — Abhimanyu (@abhimanyuk090) October 5, 2018 × The tourists were dismissed for 196 runs, in their second innings, early in the final session while following on, to trail the two-match series 0-1.

'Didn’t see cocky tweets vs England', says ex-Windies pacer to Harbhajan's potshot

<p>Indian batsman Rohit Sharma, who was highly praised for his batting and captaincy during the recently-concluded Asia Cup 2018, has been omitted from the Indian Test team squad against West Indies.</p>

<p>The two-match series, starting October 4 at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot, will see young Prithvi Shaw, Mayank Agarwal and Hanuma Vihari in the 15-member squad, instead of in-form Rohit Sharma.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, this decision by the Indian selectors did not go well with cricketer Harbhajan Singh and Sharma's fans, who took to their Twitter handle to question the think-tanks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The veteran off-spinner said he just cannot digest Rohit's exclusion from the Indian Test squad.</p>

<p>Fans too were left scratching their heads, with many taking to Twitter to vent their anger.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sharma, who captained India in the absence of Virat Kohli, finished the Asia Cup 2018 as the second highest run-getter behind only teammate Shikhar Dhawan.</p>

<p>Rohit scored 317 runs in five Asia Cup 2018 matches at an average of 105.67</p>

<p>Rohit last played a Test for India against South Africa in January earlier this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The right-hander struggled to get going against the Proteas, scoring a total of 78 runs in four innings at an average of 19.50.</p>

<p><strong>Indian team for the Windies Tests: </strong><em>Virat Kohli (captain), KL Rahul, Prithvi Shaw, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur.</em></p>


Indian batsman Rohit Sharma, who was highly praised for his batting and captaincy during the recently-concluded Asia Cup 2018, has been omitted from the Indian Test team squad against West Indies.

Indian batsman Rohit Sharma, who was highly praised for his batting and captaincy during the recently-concluded Asia Cup 2018, has been omitted from the Indian Test team squad against West Indies. The two-match series, starting October 4 at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot, will see young Prithvi Shaw, Mayank Agarwal and Hanuma Vihari in the 15-member squad, instead of in-form Rohit Sharma. However, this decision by the Indian selectors did not go well with cricketer Harbhajan Singh and Sharma's fans, who took to their Twitter handle to question the think-tanks. The veteran off-spinner said he just cannot digest Rohit's exclusion from the Indian Test squad. Fans too were left scratching their heads, with many taking to Twitter to vent their anger. Sharma, who captained India in the absence of Virat Kohli, finished the Asia Cup 2018 as the second highest run-getter behind only teammate Shikhar Dhawan. Rohit scored 317 runs in five Asia Cup 2018 matches at an average of 105.67 Rohit last played a Test for India against South Africa in January earlier this year. The right-hander struggled to get going against the Proteas, scoring a total of 78 runs in four innings at an average of 19.50. Indian team for the Windies Tests: Virat Kohli (captain), KL Rahul, Prithvi Shaw, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur.

Harbhajan, fans slam selectors over Rohit Sharma Test snub against Windies

<p>IPL 2018 has finally reached its climax as two-time champions Chennai and Hyderabad will face-off in the summit clash of the 11th season of the cash-rich league at the Wankhede stadium today.</p>

<p>Hours before the final clash begins, Chennai skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni admitted that the age factor was definitely a concern for the team.</p>

<p>"The age-group of the boys was definitely a concern, you had to keep them fit. We had to take care of the resources and to make sure that when we come to the business end of the tournament, the best 11 is available for selection," Dhoni said.</p>

<p>While interacting with the media persons, Dhoni also justified his decision to often under-bowl veteran spinner Harbhajan in the tournament.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">What goes into <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> mind before he chooses a particular bowler? The <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> captain offers a very interesting analogy?. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Final?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Final</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvSRH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvSRH</a> <a href="https://t.co/XEIEDdBEtH">pic.twitter.com/XEIEDdBEtH</a></p>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1000401323009830917?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>But the answer was not plain, it was equivalent to his 'match-winning' six.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have a lot of cars and bikes in my house. I don't ride all at a time. A lot of times, especially when you have six to seven bowlers in the side, you want to see the conditions, you want to see who is batting and what is needed at that point of time." Dhoni said.</p>

<p>"I see what is in best interest of the team," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Harbhajan has played 13 matches out of the total 15 played by CSK and picked up seven wickets at an economy of 8.48.</p>


Chennai will clash with Hyderabad at the Wankhede stadium today

IPL 2018 has finally reached its climax as two-time champions Chennai and Hyderabad will face-off in the summit clash of the 11th season of the cash-rich league at the Wankhede stadium today. Hours before the final clash begins, Chennai skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni admitted that the age factor was definitely a concern for the team. "The age-group of the boys was definitely a concern, you had to keep them fit. We had to take care of the resources and to make sure that when we come to the business end of the tournament, the best 11 is available for selection," Dhoni said. While interacting with the media persons, Dhoni also justified his decision to often under-bowl veteran spinner Harbhajan in the tournament. What goes into @msdhoni mind before he chooses a particular bowler? The @ChennaiIPL captain offers a very interesting analogy?. #VIVOIPL #Final #CSKvSRH pic.twitter.com/XEIEDdBEtH — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 26, 2018 × But the answer was not plain, it was equivalent to his 'match-winning' six. "I have a lot of cars and bikes in my house. I don't ride all at a time. A lot of times, especially when you have six to seven bowlers in the side, you want to see the conditions, you want to see who is batting and what is needed at that point of time." Dhoni said. "I see what is in best interest of the team," he added. Harbhajan has played 13 matches out of the total 15 played by CSK and picked up seven wickets at an economy of 8.48.

Watch: Why Dhoni barely used Harbhajan Singh in IPL 2018

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