One of the best spinners India has ever produced, Harbhajan Singh called time on his cricketing career on Friday, December 24, 2021, as he announced his retirement from all forms of the game.
Though he played his last game for India in 2016, he had continued playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) turning out for Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, and lastly Kolkata Knight Riders. Harbhajan had made his debut in 1998 against Australia in the home Test series.
He went on to become one of the most successful off-spinners taking 417 Test wickets, 269 ODI wickets, and 25 T20I scalps. He played 103 Tests, 236 ODIs, and 28 T20I matches from 1998-2016.
He was also part of the Indian team’s 2007 T20 World Cup win in South Africa and the 2011 World Cup win at home. His most glorifying moment came in 2001, when he single-handedly bowled India to a 2-1 Test series win over Australia at home, picking 32 wickets in 3 Tests, and also took the first Test hat-trick for India.
Today, as he hung up his boots and prepares for an innings off the field, Harbhajan Singh received wishes from two of his former captains Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly.
Tendulkar took to social media and wished him luck for the future, saying, “What a wonderful & fulfilling career, Bhajji! I first met you at India nets in ‘95 - over the years, we’ve been part of wonderful memories. You have been a great team man, playing with all your heart. Both on the field and off it - it is always fun to have you as part of any team. I cannot forget all those moments of laughter. You have done your best for India in your long career, we are all very proud of you. Wishing you happiness and success in the ‘doosra’ phase of your career.”
Meanwhile, Sourav Ganguly, under whom Harbhajan produced most of his amazing performances, also wished him and said that it was an honor to play with him.
“An absolute master of his art ..what stood out for him was his guts ..what an absolute honor to play with him,” Ganguly posted.
