Slapping was a mistake and I am sorry about that, says Harbhajan Singh

With cricket getting limited every year and Indian Premier League largely being Bhajji’s only window of play, the 38-year-old has seemingly got time to reflect on his past actions as he has been found voicing his opinions on many matters. After slamming KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya for their comments on “Koffee with Karan”, Harbhajan has now admitted that he still feel sorry for his year-old offence against Sreesanth.

It was during the first season of IPL in April 2008 when following a minor altercation Harbhajan was caught on camera slamming Sreesanth after a match between Mumbai Indians and Kings XI Punjab and it was popular branded as ‘Slapgate’. Although Harbhajan has been known to have immediately apologized to Sreesanth in the dressing room, the now Chennai Super Kings spinner felt the need to come out in public and do the same.

Speaking to popular Tamil YouTube channel - Behindwoods Air, Harbhajan said, “Whatever happened with Sreesanth.. me and him on the field... lot of people talk about that incident now. If I have to go back and rectify something in my life, I would correct that. I shouldn't have done that. That was a mistake and I am sorry about that. It shouldn't have happened.”

"Sreesanth is a top guy and he had so much of skill. My best wishes to Sreesanth and his wife and to their children. No matter what people say, I am still your brother," Harbhajan added.

Both Harbhajan and Sreesanth were part of the team that had won the T20 World Cup in 2007 and the 50-over 2011 World Cup. However, it was followed by Sreesanth getting arrested in the 2013 spot-fixing scandal and despite being excused by the Patiala House court, the fast bowler was banned for life by BCCI.