Shubman and Abhishek don't joke much with me: Harbhajan Singh

Former India spinner, Harbhajan Singh played his last domestic season in 2017. He was also the captain of the Punjab team. One highlight of his last stint in the Punjab team was, the Indian team’s current batting sensations, Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma debuted in the Ranji Trophy under him. Having spent his final days of professional cricket with the youngsters, Harbhajan reflected on how the youngsters reacted to his seniorhood. 

Abhishek Sharma just notched up a brilliant Ton against England in the fifth T20I. He also became the player with highest individual score for India in T20Is. On the sidelines of this innings, Harbhajan recalled that Abhishek and Shubman put on a subdued look when he was around them and never joked in front of him. He later introspected it to be them respecting him as a senior. 

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"Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill made their debut under me. When I was the captain, I asked for them to be included in the Ranji Trophy. I am so happy to see their progress. It gives me immense pride that both of them are from Punjab. Both Shubman and Abhishek don't joke much with me. I don't know why they are afraid of me. Maybe when they are together, they do mazaak. But when I come, they become serious. Maybe it's because of respect. Then I leave,” said Harbhajan as quoted by NDTV. 

This team is ready for the 2026 T20 World Cup: Harbhajan 

The veteran also saw India’s batting future in the form of Abhishek, Shubman and Yashasvi Jaiswal. The 44-year-old has been advocating the three cricketers as long-term investments in Indian cricket. While adding to his wish, he also hoped that these three would be the permanent top three for India in white ball cricket. 

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"This team is ready for the 2026 T20 World Cup. India defeated England by defending as well as chasing. We have players who can break the opposition. I am looking forward to the day Shubman, Abhishek and Yashasvi Jaiswal are the permanent top 3 in white ball format. May be in the next six months that will happen," Harbhajan added.