Protesting workers vandalised the wall of Harbhajan Singh’s residence, writing “traitor” on it. In Jalandhar, his house was surrounded by agitated individuals who also marked the property with the same term. Despite the outrage, labeling Harbhajan Singh as a traitor raises questions, as political realignments are not uncommon. Known as the “Turbanator,” Harbhajan Singh has, on numerous occasions, brought recognition to the country and played decisive roles in securing major victories for India in cricket.
In 2001, during the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at Eden Gardens in Kolkata between India and Australia, Harbhajan Singh delivered a historic performance. He claimed 7 wickets for 123 runs in the first innings and followed it with 6 wickets for 73 runs in the second innings. His effort led India to a memorable victory and halted Australia’s 16-match winning streak.
The third and decisive Test of the same series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai further highlighted his dominance. Harbhajan Singh took a total of 15 wickets, with figures of 7 for 133 in the first innings and 8 for 84 in the second innings. He became the third Indian bowler to take 10 or more wickets in a match twice, helping India secure the series 2-1.
In 2006, at Sabina Park in Jamaica, during the fourth and final Test between India and the West Indies, India achieved a historic series win after 35 years. Harbhajan Singh’s spell of 5 wickets for 13 runs in just 4.3 overs in the first innings restricted the hosts to 103 runs. India won the match by 49 runs.
In 2010, at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, India faced South Africa in the second Test. A win was essential to retain the ICC Test ranking. Amid criticism, Harbhajan Singh responded with 3 wickets for 64 runs in the first innings and 5 wickets for 59 runs in the second innings, dismantling key South African players.
In 2004, during the fourth Test against Australia, Harbhajan Singh played a decisive role by taking 5 crucial wickets for 29 runs, leading India to a remarkable 13-run victory on the third day. He bowled Australia out for just 93 runs in the second innings.
Harbhajan Singh’s record remains notable. He was the first Indian to take a Test hat-trick, achieving the feat in Kolkata in 2001. In the same year, he claimed 32 wickets, the highest by a spinner in a three-Test series. He also became the first bowler to take 5 wickets in 5 overs in a Caribbean country. His international career spanned from 1998 to 2016, during which he took 417 wickets in Test cricket.
The political shift of these seven MPs has sparked significant unrest, but Harbhajan Singh’s legacy in cricket continues to stand as a testament to his contributions to the nation, underscoring the complex intersection of sports, public image, and politics.
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