Harbhajan Singh, one of India’s most iconic off-spinners, has opened up about a long-standing belief that the legendary Bishan Singh Bedi was never thoroughly impressed with his bowling style. In a candid chat with Ravichandran Ashwin on the popular YouTube series Kutti Stories with Ash, Harbhajan revealed his perception that Bedi — known for his love of traditional, flighted spin — may not have viewed his quicker, more variation-driven style as authentic spin bowling.

Harbhajan, who announced his retirement from international cricket in 2021, remains the third-highest wicket-taker for India across all formats, with a total of 711 wickets — 417 in Tests, 269 in ODIs, and 25 in T20Is. Yet, despite his staggering numbers and pivotal role in India’s rise during the 2000s, Harbhajan admitted to always sensing a disconnect with the great Bedi.

“Honestly, I didn’t interact much with him, but I always felt he didn’t quite like my style. It could just be my assumption, but I’ve always believed he wasn’t too pleased with how I bowled,” Harbhajan Singh confessed. “I have the utmost respect for Bedi sir — I admire him deeply and have always sought his blessings. But I knew I wasn’t the kind of spinner he approved of.”

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Bedi, a purist who cherished flight and loop, had a contrasting philosophy to Harbhajan’s flatter trajectory and quicker through-the-air approach. However, Bhajji stood by his craft. “There was pace in my deliveries, and I believed in using it. You don’t need flight every time to get a batter out. It’s about how and where you make him play. That’s always been my outlook.”

Singh also emphasised that spin is an art of deception — not just in the air, but also off the pitch and through subtle variations in pace and length. “Depending on the batter, you must adjust. If he’s stepping out, you pull back; if he’s playing deep, you invite him forward. It’s a game of chess.”

Beyond reflections, Harbhajan also voiced his cricketing opinion on India’s current Test campaign against England. With Kuldeep Yadav warming the bench, Harbhajan urged the team management, including Gautam Gambhir, to bring the Chinaman into the playing XI for the fourth Test at Old Trafford, especially with Nitish Kumar Reddy ruled out. India has so far depended on all-round spin options like Jadeja and Washington Sundar, but is yet to field a specialist wrist-spinner.

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Currently, Harbhajan is active in the commentary circuit and continues to participate in exhibition tournaments, such as the World Championship of Legends. As part of the India Legends squad, he is expected to play in their next clash against South Africa Legends. The team notably withdrew from their fixture against Pakistan following the Pehalgam terror attack, making a strong political statement.