Harbhajan Singh, known for his aggressive spin bowling during his playing days, has voiced his concern about the current approach of spinners in T20 cricket, particularly in the IPL. According to the former India spinner, many modern-day spinners are more focused on restricting runs rather than attacking and taking wickets. This shift, he believes, has compromised the art of spin bowling, turning spinners into mere “run-containers” rather than genuine wicket-takers.
“I am sorry to say, but in T20s and the IPL, a lot of spinners are bowling like pacers. They are not spinning the ball, not attacking, and lack the intent to take wickets. Spinners need to be a little braver and take more chances,” Harbhajan Singh remarked during an appearance on JioHotstar.
His observation highlights the evolving role of spinners in a format increasingly dominated by power-hitting and flat pitches. Harbhajan also welcomed the return of saliva to shine the ball, a practice banned during the COVID-19 pandemic. With the restriction now lifted, bowlers will be allowed to use saliva to maintain the ball’s condition.
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“It’s a good move for bowlers. Soon, we might see it back in international cricket because it helps shine the ball better, providing swing for pacers and drift for spinners,” Harbhajan Singh explained.
Harbhajan Singh didn’t mince his words as he spoke about the spinners in IPL#IPL2025 #HarbhajanSingh #IPL https://t.co/g93757cPcO
— CrickIt (@CrickitbyHT) March 22, 2025
Additionally, IPL 2025 will introduce the use of two balls during the second innings of night matches to mitigate the impact of dew. Harbhajan Singh believes that this could balance the game, especially when teams struggle to grip a wet ball.
“Captains will need to be strategic about when to use the second ball. If used wisely, it can make a significant difference,” he noted.
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Among the young talents to watch out for this season, Harbhajan singled out Riyan Parag, who will lead Rajasthan Royals for the first three games in the absence of Sanju Samson. Samson is expected to play purely as a batter while recovering from a finger injury. “Every year, the IPL showcases promising youngsters, but my eyes are on Riyan Parag. Assam played well under his captaincy, and I hope to see him take his game to the next level,” Harbhajan shared.
