In 2017, Harbhajan Singh, a former spinner for India, played his final season at home. In addition, he led the Punjab squad as captain. His final spell with the Punjab team included the debuts of Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill, the current batting sensations for the Indian side, in the Ranji Trophy. After spending his last days as a professional cricket player among the younger generation, Harbhajan thought back on their reactions to his ageing.
In the fifth Twenty20 International, Abhishek Sharma just scored an incredible century against England. In T20Is, he also became the player for India with the greatest individual score. Harbhajan recalled on the sidelines of this innings that Shubman and Abhishek always wore a serious expression around him and never made jokes in front of him. Later on, he interpreted it as their regard for him as a senior.
“Under me, Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma made their debuts.
I requested that they be added to the Ranji Trophy while I was captain. Seeing how far they have come makes me very happy. The fact that both of them are Punjabi makes me quite proud. Abhishek and Shubman don’t make jokes with me very often. I have no idea why people fear me. Perhaps they perform mazaak while they are together. But they get serious when I show up. Perhaps it’s out of respect. Then I go,” Harbhajan stated, according to NDTV.
This squad is prepared for the T20 World Cup in 2026: Harbhajan Singh
The veteran also recognised Abhishek, Shubman, and Yashasvi Jaiswal as the batting future of India. The three cricket players are long-term investments in Indian cricket, according to the 44-year-old. In addition, he expressed his desire that these three will consistently rank among India’s top three in white ball cricket.
“This squad is prepared for the T20 World Cup in 2026. India outplayed England by both chasing and defending. Our guys are capable of breaking the opposition. I’m excited for the day when Shubman, Abhishek, and Yashasvi Jaiswal are the white ball format’s permanent top three. That might occur within the next six months,” Harbhajan continued.
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