Cricket

MS Dhoni's Uncharacteristic Outburst After CSK's IPL LossFormer Indian and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has revealed an incident that has shocked fans of the legendary captain and wicketkeeper-batsman, MS Dhoni.During an interview with 'Sports Yaari', Harbhajan narrated an incident that occurred after CSK's crucial loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) earlier this year."RCB were celebrating and they deserved to celebrate because of the way they won. I was watching the whole scene from above because I was present there," Harbhajan said."CSK had lined up to shake hands. RCB were a little late to reach there. By the time, RCB finished their celebration, (Dhoni) went inside. Dressing room se pehle jo screen hai, uspe mukka bhi maara (he punched a screen outside the dressing room). I was watching from above, but it is okay, it happens when you win or lose."Harbhajan's revelation has surprised many, as Dhoni is known for his calm and composed demeanor. However, Harbhajan suggested that Dhoni's outburst may have been due to the disappointment of losing the match and the realization that his dream of retiring with the IPL trophy was shattered."It's their (RCB's) right to celebrate, even if they take three minutes. But he (Dhoni) went away. That was his thinking...Maybe he was not so calm that day, maybe because his dream of retiring with the trophy was shattered," Harbhajan added.Despite Dhoni's outburst, both RCB and CSK failed to reach the IPL final, which was contested between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). KKR emerged victorious, winning their third IPL title.It is expected that Dhoni, now 43, will return for another season with CSK, as the new IPL Player Regulations allow the franchise to retain him.

The 1998 Coca-Cola Cup tri-series in Sharjah witnessed the birth of one of the most iconic rivalries in cricket history: Harbhajan Singh vs. Ricky Ponting.Harbhajan, a young and promising off-spinner, had just made his ODI debut for India. In his fourth match, he faced the formidable Australian batsman Ponting, who was known for his aggressive batting style.Ponting, batting at No. 3, started off strongly, hitting Harbhajan for boundaries. However, Harbhajan had the last laugh. In the same over, he had Ponting stumped by wicketkeeper Nayan Mongia. The dismissal was followed by a fiery send-off from Harbhajan, igniting a rivalry that would last for years to come.Ponting, not one to back down, retaliated by barging into Harbhajan and exchanging words. The incident set the tone for their future encounters, which were often marked by intense competition and verbal exchanges.The match itself was a high-scoring affair, with Australia posting 284 for 7 thanks to centuries from Michael Bevan and Mark Waugh. India, despite a brilliant 143 from Sachin Tendulkar, could only manage 250 for 5 in a weather-shortened game. Australia won by 26 runs.The Harbhajan-Ponting rivalry became a defining feature of the India-Australia cricket rivalry. Harbhajan, with his guile and accuracy, often had the upper hand over Ponting, who was known for his attacking batting. Their battles on the field were always intense and often spilled over into verbal exchanges.The rivalry reached its peak during the 2008 Sydney Test, where Harbhajan was accused of racially abusing Ponting. The incident led to a diplomatic row between India and Australia and cast a shadow over the relationship between the two cricketing nations.Despite the controversies, the Harbhajan-Ponting rivalry remains one of the most memorable in cricket history. It was a clash of two contrasting styles and personalities, and it produced some of the most memorable moments in the sport.

The 2010 Asia Cup witnessed an unforgettable clash between two cricketing giants, Shoaib Akhtar and Harbhajan Singh. The India vs Pakistan match reached its climax when Harbhajan smashed a crucial six off Akhtar in the final overs, propelling India to a thrilling three-wicket victory.The tension between the two players had been simmering throughout the match. Akhtar's fiery bouncer and subsequent verbal exchange with Harbhajan set the stage for a dramatic showdown. In the 50th over, with Pakistan needing just 12 runs to win, Harbhajan unleashed his fury on Mohammad Amir, sending the ball soaring over the midwicket boundary.As the ball sailed over the ropes, Harbhajan let out a deafening roar and removed his helmet, his gaze fixed on Akhtar, who was positioned at third man. Akhtar, in response, made a V sign with his fingers and turned his head away, unable to meet Harbhajan's triumphant stare.The on-field clash between the two stars became a defining moment in their rivalry. Years later, they reunited during the Legends League Cricket Masters and reminisced about their heated encounter. Akhtar recalled the sixes he had hit off Harbhajan in the Faisalabad Test, while Harbhajan pointed out that he had refrained from sledging Akhtar after those shots.However, when Harbhajan turned the tables and hit a six off Akhtar, the fast bowler's anger flared. "You said so many things!" Harbhajan exclaimed. Akhtar playfully hit Harbhajan, who responded with humor, "When he can't win with words, he starts hitting people."The clash between Shoaib Akhtar and Harbhajan Singh remains etched in the annals of cricket history as a testament to the intense rivalry between India and Pakistan. It was a moment of triumph for Harbhajan and a reminder of the passion and drama that can unfold on the cricket field.

Virat Kohli's journey to cricketing greatness has been marked by an unwavering determination and an insatiable hunger for success. Harbhajan Singh, a former teammate and close friend, recently shared insights into Kohli's early career, highlighting the qualities that have shaped him into one of India's most celebrated cricketers.During Kohli's debut ODI series in 2008, Harbhajan witnessed firsthand the young batsman's relentless drive. Despite scoring a half-century, Kohli expressed dissatisfaction, revealing his desire to push himself further. This attitude hinted at the exceptional heights he would eventually reach.Kohli's early Test struggles in 2011 against the West Indies tested his self-belief. Harbhajan recalled a conversation where he encouraged Kohli to believe in his abilities, predicting that he would score 10,000 Test runs. These words proved prophetic, as Kohli transformed into a batting phenomenon over the next 13 years.Harbhajan attributed Kohli's success to his unwavering mindset and meticulous preparation. He observed a shift in Kohli's diet and training regimen, reflecting his determination to become an extraordinary player. Kohli's stubbornness and unwavering belief in his abilities have been instrumental in his rise to the top.Kohli's impact on Indian cricket has been profound. He has elevated his batting to unprecedented levels, breaking numerous records and becoming the face of the sport in India. His aggressive approach and relentless pursuit of victory have inspired a generation of cricketers.Currently, Kohli stands on the cusp of surpassing 10,000 Test runs, a milestone that would further cement his legacy as one of India's all-time greats. His journey from a young batsman to a cricketing legend serves as a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and an unwavering belief in oneself.

India's Spin Prowess: Harbhajan Singh Raises Concerns About Pitch ConditionsAfter a prolonged period of limited-overs cricket, the Indian cricket team is set to return to the Test arena next month. However, former spin great Harbhajan Singh has expressed concerns about the team's ability to play spin effectively.Harbhajan believes that India's recent focus on preparing pitches that turn excessively has hindered the development of their batters. While the bowlers have thrived in these conditions, the batters have struggled to adapt."We've started playing on pitches that turn a lot more. We wanted to win and we did win, but we won in two and a half days," Harbhajan told Sports Tak. "I think, if we had produced normal pitches that started to turn from Day 3 and Day 4, we still would have won, but the batters would have gotten time to settle in."Harbhajan emphasized the importance of providing batters with time to adjust to spin-friendly conditions. He believes that the current approach has eroded their confidence."We dented the confidence of our batters because anybody can get out (cheaply) on those pitches," he said. "We still have a chance (to rectify this). If we play on good pitches, I don't think anyone can beat India."Harbhajan also highlighted the need for senior players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jasprit Bumrah to participate in domestic tournaments like the Duleep Trophy. He believes their presence would inspire and motivate younger players."It would be great if they (Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah) play in the Duleep Trophy 2024," he said. "When a big player features in these tournaments, it motivates other players who are playing alongside them."

Former Indian cricket legend Harbhajan Singh believes that Virat Kohli's exceptional physical condition will allow him to continue playing international cricket for another five years. He also expressed his opinion that Rohit Sharma, the current captain of the Indian team in both Test and ODI formats, can continue playing for at least two more years.Harbhajan emphasized Kohli's remarkable fitness, stating that he is "probably the fittest guy in the team." He believes that Kohli's fitness will enable him to withstand the rigors of international cricket for an extended period.Regarding Rohit Sharma, Harbhajan said, "Rohit can easily play for two more years." He highlighted the importance of experience in Test cricket, stating that both Kohli and Sharma are crucial players in this format.Harbhajan stressed the need for selectors to balance experience with performance. He said, "If someone is not performing well, they should be dropped, whether they are senior players or juniors." However, he emphasized that as long as players are fit and contributing, they should continue to be selected.Harbhajan also acknowledged the hunger and determination of younger players, saying, "Youngsters have much more hunger than the seniors." He praised the opportunities being given to Riyan Parag, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill.Despite India's recent 0-2 defeat against Sri Lanka in the ODI series, Harbhajan downplayed its significance. He said, "It was one of those things. Sometimes you win it, sometimes you lose it. It's sports after all." He commended Sri Lanka for playing better than India.

The upcoming ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan has sparked a debate over whether the Indian cricket team will participate. India has not played cricket in Pakistan for over a decade due to security concerns.Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has expressed concerns about India's potential visit to Pakistan, citing the volatile security situation. However, ex-Pakistan pacer Tanvir Ahmed has challenged the Indian team to visit Pakistan, referring to Pakistan's own visit to India for the ODI World Cup last year.In a viral video clip, Tanvir Ahmed commended the Pakistan team for being "brave and fearless" for traveling to India to play cricket. He extended an invitation to the Indian team to come to Pakistan, reassuring them of their safety."We are lions, we came and played cricket in your country. Come here and show... We are inviting you to come and play. We will provide security, we will give you everything. Just come once," said Tanvir Ahmed.Pakistan has assured that all matches involving the Indian team in the tournament will be held in Lahore, and the Indian team will stay at the same hotel throughout their visit. This arrangement is intended to enhance security measures.Last year, the Indian cricket team refused to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup, leading to India matches being staged in Sri Lanka instead. Since 2012, the two nations have not played any bilateral series, with the Indian government limiting cricket encounters between Pakistan and India to ICC or ACC events.The decision of whether India will participate in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan remains uncertain. The security situation and political tensions between the two countries will likely play a significant role in the decision-making process.

Former Indian cricket team spinner Harbhajan Singh has expressed his disappointment over the exclusion of Abhishek Sharma, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Sanju Samson from the Indian squad for the upcoming T20I and ODI series against Sri Lanka.Harbhajan took to social media to voice his concerns, stating, "Hard to understand why @yuzi_chahal @IamAbhiSharma4 @IamSanjuSamson are not part of the Indian Team for Sri Lanka."Abhishek Sharma, a young batter, has been in impressive form, scoring big against Zimbabwe. Yuzvendra Chahal, a veteran spinner, had a brilliant IPL season. Sanju Samson, while included in the T20I squad, was left out of the ODI squad.Meanwhile, newly-appointed T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav expressed his excitement and gratitude for the opportunity. He said, "The last few weeks have been nothing short of a dream and I am truly grateful. This new role brings with it, a lot of responsibility, excitement, and enthusiasm."India has named Suryakumar Yadav as the captain of their men's T20I team for the tour of Sri Lanka, with Shubman Gill named as the vice-captain of both the T20I and ODI sides. The white-ball tour to Sri Lanka will start from July 27 and will consist of three T20Is and ODIs. It will be India's first international assignment under new coach Gautam Gambhir.

Harbhajan Singh Slams Pakistani Journalist for Comparing Dhoni to RizwanFormer Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh has vehemently criticized a Pakistani journalist for comparing legendary Indian captain MS Dhoni to Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan. The journalist had posted a photograph of Dhoni and Rizwan on social media, asking his followers who was better between the two.Harbhajan, who played 103 Tests, 236 ODIs, and 28 T20Is for India between 1998 and 2016, took to social media to express his disapproval of the comparison. He questioned the journalist's judgment and asserted that Dhoni was far superior to Rizwan."What are you smoking nowadays? What a silly question to ask. Dhoni is way ahead of Rizwan. Even if you ask Rizwan, he will give you an honest answer. I like Rizwan, he is a good player who always plays with intent, but this comparison is wrong. Dhoni is number one even today in world cricket. None better than him behind the stumps," Harbhajan wrote.Harbhajan's comments highlight the immense respect and admiration that Dhoni commands within the cricketing fraternity. Dhoni's leadership and batting prowess have earned him a legendary status in the sport. He led India to two historic World Cup victories, the ICC T20 World Cup in 2007 and the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2011. His unbeaten 91 in the final against Sri Lanka in the 2011 World Cup is considered one of the greatest innings in cricket history.Apart from his World Cup triumphs, Dhoni also led India to victory in the ICC Champions Trophy in 2013. His astute captaincy and ability to inspire his team have made him one of the most successful captains in cricket history.While Rizwan is a talented player who has performed consistently for Pakistan, comparing him to Dhoni is a disservice to the latter's achievements and legacy. Dhoni's contributions to Indian cricket are unparalleled, and he remains one of the most respected and admired cricketers in the world.