Harbhajan Singh, fondly known as the “Turbanator,” was born on July 3, 1980, in Jalandhar, Punjab, into a traditional Sikh household. His father, Sardar Sardev Singh Plaha, was a respected businessman, while his mother played a key role in raising him with discipline and strong values. Harbhajan initially trained as a batsman but later switched to spin bowling under the guidance of his coach Davinder Arora. This decision would change his life forever, setting him on the path to becoming one of India’s greatest off-spinners.
Growing up in Punjab, Harbhajan faced several personal and professional challenges. However, his hard work, passion, and fiery attitude made him stand out. His aggressive style of play would later become his trademark and earn him a special place in the hearts of cricket fans.
Domestic and IPL Career
Harbhajan Singh made his First-Class debut for Punjab in the 1997–98 season, impressing with his ability to turn the ball sharply and trouble even experienced batsmen. His performances soon earned him a place in the Indian team.
With the advent of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008, Harbhajan became one of the marquee players for the Mumbai Indians (MI). He represented the franchise from 2008 to 2017, winning multiple titles and becoming one of the team’s senior-most leaders. His fiery spells and ability to deliver breakthroughs in pressure situations made him invaluable to MI’s success.
In the later phase of his career, he played for Chennai Super Kings (2018–2020), where he continued to deliver impactful performances, especially on spin-friendly tracks. In 2021, he represented the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) before retiring from professional cricket.
International Career
Test Career (1998–2015)
Harbhajan made his Test debut against Australia on March 25, 1998. However, it was the 2001 Border-Gavaskar Trophy that catapulted him to stardom. In that iconic series, he took 32 wickets in just 3 matches, including a historic hat-trick at Eden Gardens, Kolkata – making him the first Indian bowler to take a Test hat-trick. His sensational performance helped India defeat a dominant Australian team and remains one of the greatest achievements in Indian cricket history.
Throughout his Test career, Harbhajan played 103 matches, claiming 417 wickets, making him India’s second-highest wicket-taking off-spinner after Anil Kumble. He was instrumental in several series victories against Australia, England, Pakistan, and South Africa.
ODI and T20I Career (1998–2016)
Harbhajan made his ODI debut on April 17, 1998, against New Zealand. He went on to play 236 ODIs, taking 269 wickets. One of his most significant contributions came in the 2003 ICC World Cup, where he helped India reach the final.
He was also part of the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup-winning squad, taking nine crucial wickets, including important dismissals in the knockout stages.
In T20 internationals, Harbhajan made his debut in 2006 against South Africa. He played a vital role in India’s triumph in the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup, which laid the foundation for India’s dominance in the shortest format. He ended his T20I career with 25 wickets in 28 matches.
Achievements and Records
- First Indian to take a Test hat-trick (2001 vs Australia).
- 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup winner.
- 2007 ICC T20 World Cup winner.
- Over 700 international wickets across formats.
- One of only two Indian bowlers (with Anil Kumble) to take more than 400 Test wickets.
- Played a key role in India becoming the No. 1 Test team (2009–2011).
- Scored 2 Test centuries, showcasing his ability as a handy lower-order batsman.
Playing Style and Strengths
Harbhajan Singh was known for his aggressive, passionate style of play. His sharp off-spin, bounce, and ability to outfox batsmen made him a nightmare for opponents. A true big-match player, he consistently delivered match-winning performances in high-pressure games.
Apart from his bowling, Harbhajan contributed with the bat, scoring vital lower-order runs, including two memorable Test centuries.
Personal Life and Post-Cricket Career
In 2015, Harbhajan married Bollywood actress Geeta Basra, and the couple has two children – a daughter, Hinaya Heer Plaha, and a son, Jovan Veer Singh Plaha.
After retiring from cricket, Harbhajan transitioned into roles as a commentator, cricket analyst, and politician. In 2022, he was elected as a Rajya Sabha MP, continuing his service to the nation beyond cricket. He has also invested in sports academies, real estate, and various business ventures.
Legacy and Influence
Harbhajan Singh’s legacy is defined by his fearless spirit and match-winning abilities. His 32-wicket haul in the 2001 series against Australia remains etched in cricket history. He played a crucial role in India’s golden era of cricket, contributing to victories in the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup.
Known for his aggressive nature and never-back-down attitude, Harbhajan inspired the next generation of Indian spinners, including Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. Beyond cricket, his role as a mentor, commentator, and politician ensures that his influence continues both on and off the field.
Harbhajan Singh is not just remembered as a bowler with over 700 international wickets, but as a true fighter who brought pride to Indian cricket with his passion, determination, and unmatched skills.
