Regarded as one of India's greatest spin bowlers in cricket history, Harbhajan Singh has shed light on several lesser-known chapters of his playing career. He candidly discussed the ups and downs he faced during his long journey, especially during the initial phase when he had just arrived in the national team. Having represented India across 367 international matches, his path was far from smooth. Reflecting on some of the most talked-about incidents from his career, he recalled the times when he had to navigate exceptionally difficult circumstances.
Early Action Controversy And Family Support
Recalling his initial days during an interview, Harbhajan mentioned that he started playing cricket after watching Kapil Dev. He broke into the national squad at the young age of 17, but hurdles emerged almost immediately. Due to controversies surrounding his bowling action, he was dropped from the team rather quickly. This sudden setback brought immense disappointment. However, during that challenging phase, his family provided unwavering support, which ultimately enabled him to stage a successful comeback.
The Painful NCA Ouster And Personal Loss
Continuing to reflect on his turbulent times, the veteran spinner touched upon the episode involving his departure from the National Cricket Academy. Harbhajan shared that right before the historic 2001 Test series against Australia, his father passed away. It was an exceptionally tough period for him, but to fulfill his father's dream, he refused to give up. Furthermore, he addressed the time he was removed from the NCA, stating that it felt deeply unfair because he had only raised his voice to advocate for his own rights and those of fellow players.
Decoding On-Field Aggression
Known famously for his fiery and aggressive demeanor on the cricket field, Harbhajan also explained the rationale behind his on-field persona. He explained that when facing a formidable and aggressive side like Australia, one has to match their intensity. The principle of fighting fire with fire had to be applied. Maintaining an aggressive stance on the pitch and locking horns with opposition players was a calculated part of his tactical plan. However, he clarified that inside the dressing room and away from the heat of the match, he was a remarkably lighthearted and calm individual.
