Harbhajan Singh draws curtains to glorious 23 year long career

Veteran India off spinner Harbhajan Singh has announced retirement from all forms of cricket. The 41 year old professional cricket playing career featured 103 tests, 236 ODIs, 28 T20s during which he took 711 wickets and established himself as one of the greatest spin wizards of the game. Fondly known as turbanator, the off spinner made his test debut way back in 1998 against Australia and immediately turned heads with his art. Greg Blewet was his first of the 417 wickets in the 5 day format. In the very same year, Bhajji earned his maiden ODI cap when India played against New Zealand at Sharjah in April.

It was however three years after his debut when the off spinner hogged the limelight as he led an emphatic comeback for his home side against the mighty Aussies. He was a vital cog for the Indian unit that came from behind to win the series by 2-1. With 32 scalps, the craftsmen made headlines and instantly became a fan favourite. He was also impressive during the 2003 World Series, finishing with 11 wickets at a decent economy rate.

Harbhajan made his international T20I debut 2006 against the Proteas and played a pivotal role in India’s triumph during the 2007 World T20 series, taking 7 wickets in the grand tournament. Four years later, he added another illustrious title (50 over World Series) to his kitty. Playing as the frontline spinner, Bhajji proved his mettle as a remarkable off spinner and bagged 9 wickets.

Harbhajan was also one of the chief architects of India’s momentous overseas victories in Leeds (2009) and Durban (2010). Apart from an illustrious international career, Harbhajan has also tasted success in his Ind-T20 League career. He took 150 wickets in 163 matches and won four titles.