[WATCH] IPL 2025: Harbhajan Singh's racist 'black taxi' remark on Jofra Archer ignites controversy

Former Indian cricketer and IPL commentator Harbhajan Singh made a controversial racial remark during the IPL 2025 match between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Sunday. While commentating, Singh compared England pacer Jofra Archer to London's "black taxi," which triggered widespread criticism and accusations of racism.

The incident took place during the 18th over of the first innings when Archer was bowling to SRH batters Ishan Kishan and Heinrich Klaasen. The South African batter had just smashed consecutive boundaries against the England pacer when Harbhajan made the comparison.

“London me kaali taxi ka meter tez bhaagta hai, Aur yaha pe Archer sahab ka meter bhi tez bhaaga hai (Like the meter of London’s black taxis, Archer’s meter has also been on the higher side),” Harbhajan said on air. 

Watch the video below: 

B‎ I‎ S‎ W‎ A‎ J‎ E‎ E‎ T‎@Biswajeet_2277

Racism at Peak 😂😂😂😂 Harbhajan Singh Calling Archer Kali Taxi

05:18 PM · Mar 23, 2025

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Jofra Archer records the most expensive spell in IPL history

The comment said in a lighthearted manner, quickly started trending on social media, with many fans calling it racially inappropriate. Singh, who has previously faced allegations of racism during his playing days, is now under this fresh controversy for making an offensive remark.

Many called for Harbhajan’s removal from the IPL 2025 commentary panel, asking for an official apology from the veteran spinner. Others pointed out the irony of Singh’s statement, given that he has himself faced accusations of racial misconduct in the past, including the infamous "Monkeygate" scandal involving the late Andrew Symonds in 2008.

Despite the backlash, the former spinner has yet to issue a formal statement or apology regarding his comment. The IPL governing body and broadcasting officials have also come under question for not addressing the issue promptly. Notably, Archer’s performance in the match was disappointing as he conceded 76 runs without taking a wicket, registering an unwanted record for the most expensive bowling figures in IPL history as he went past Mohit Sharma's spell of 0/73.

Meanwhile, SRH made history by scoring 286/6, just two runs short of breaking their own record for the highest total in IPL history. Ishan Kishan played an important role in the victory, smashing a century off just 45 balls as Hyderabad secured a 44-run win over Rajasthan Royals.