5 Instances when teams regretted sledging opposition players
The cricketing world is divided on the subject of sledging and are undecided on whether it should be part of the game or removed from it.
2. Shoaib Akhtar’s spat with Harbhajan Singh, 2010
Pakistan and India share a rivalry unlike any other nation, the arch-rivals are often engaged in fierce contests on the pitch and never back down from dishing out a few unpleasantries at the opponent. It was the case when both these sides met in a blockbuster clash in the Asia Cup in Dambulla in 2010.
Pakistan had set India a tricky target of 268 runs after batting first in the match. The Indian team had a decent start in pursuit of Pakistan’s total and were in control of the chase. But a mini-collapse in the middle overs derailed their chase. In the 47th over, Harbhajan Singh smashed Pakistani speedster, Shoaib Akhtar, for a massive six. Akhtar then directed a couple of vicious bouncers towards the Indian batters’ ribcage in a typical fast bowler’s response.
Both the players exchanged a few words in a heated argument after the end of the over. Notably, it was the Indian spinner who had the last laugh as he hit a gigantic six in the final over to seal a historic win for India. Harbhajan erupted in a roar after the win and directed it towards the Pakistani pacer, who was seen suggesting the batter get on with it and leave the pitch.
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