'I would expect some privacy' - Harbhajan Singh announces his decision to pull out of IPL 2020

Chennai Super Kings veteran Harbhajan Singh, on Friday, stunned everyone by withdrawing from the upcoming IPL 2020. Citing personal reasons, the off-spinner announced his decision and even shared a message for his fans on Twitter.

The development was on expected lines as Harbhajan hadn’t travelled with the team to the UAE. The off-spinner, who has been a part of the Chennai franchise during the past two years, revealed that he wants some privacy to spend time with his family. Harbhajan also thanked CSK management for being extremely supportive at such time.

CSK management has been extremely supportive: Harbhajan Singh

“Dear Friends. I will not be playing IPL this year due to personal reasons. These are difficult times and I would expect some privacy as I spend time with my family. @ChennaiIPL CSK management has been extremely supportive and I wish them a great IPL. Stay safe and Jai Hind,” announced Harbhajan on Twitter.

The Chennai franchise has suffered several blows ahead of IPL 2020. CSK, days before the tournament, were shaken after 13 members of the CSK squad had tested positive for the coronavirus. To make things worse, their vice-captain Suresh Raina also decided to withdraw from the league and head back to India owing to personal reasons.

CSK’s training was also delayed due to the confirmed COVID-19 results within their camp. The Yellow Army had arrived in the UAE on August 21st and it’s been a shaky journey for them so far.

40-year-old Harbhajan is IPL’s third-highest wicket-taker with 150 scalps in 160 matches. After donning the Mumbai Indians jersey for 10 years, Harbhajan shifted his base to CSK in 2018 edition of the IPL.

Overcoming all the hurdles, the MS Dhoni-led side is expected to start training from Friday in Dubai. CSK, one of the most successful franchises, currently have three titles under their belt. The thirteenth edition will be an opportunity for them to add fourth IPL trophy in their collection. After many delays, the much-awaited IPL 2020 is slated to start from September 19 in the UAE. The BCCI identified the Gulf nation as a viable option to stage the tournament amid the pandemic.