Harbhajan Singh reveals his thoughts ahead of the IPL auction

Among the predictable retentions were the ones made my Mumbai Indians, who despite having a plethora of options identified the core of the team that needed to be retained. Those who were retained by the franchise were Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah forcing the likes of Harbhajan Singh, Krunal Pandya, Kieron Pollard and several others back in the auction.

Harbhajan is one of those players who has only played for one franchise since the start of the league in 2008. He expressed his views on the chapter of his life which will begin tomorrow onwards after the auction because it is possible that the beginning of another era of the IPL starts for him with another team.

Harbhajan Singh in the auction for the first time in 10 years

“I don’t know what’s going to happen. I might be with MI or it could be any other team — Punjab, Kolkata… I enjoyed each and every moment playing for MI,” Harbhajan said.

“Well, this is a first for me. I was in the auctions when IPL started (2008) and after 10 years, I am back at the auctions. It’s a different feeling altogether. I have played all my cricket for Mumbai Indians 10 years. Now I don’t know which team I will be in,” he added.

The team is the most successful IPL franchise with three IPL titles- 2013, 2014 and 2017 and two Champions League titles in 2011, 2013. Transitioning from a side that are not only the defending champions but a force to reckon with in general will not be easy for the veteran, but his approach is positive.

“We won five trophies over there, one of them came under my captaincy too. It was wonderful to be there. Let’s see what happens on January 27. I am looking forward to IPL 2018. Whatever team I go in, I will look forward to win the Cup for whatever team I am in.”

Calling the Mumbai Indians a family, the spinner said there has been no misunderstanding with the franchise and he has been in talks with them over whatever they have been planning. When the question of him being disappointed with their decision, arose, Bhajji quashed it saying: “They called me and spoke to me about their ongoing plans. They are like family and have to accept the decision.

“Whatever they are doing, they are doing it for the best of their team and whatever they are looking to do. I am not disappointed. I am always like this. Whoever takes me I will give my 100 percent,” he said, as reported by Times Now.

The Punjab skipper was seen batting at No 3 in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy domestic Twenty20 competition which appeared like a means to showcase his all-round abilities but he clarified the thinking behind it.  “Looking at these conditions here, I found we needed someone to see through the new ball and at the same time, someone who could play shots without losing too many wickets. My role was like a floater who could bat and attack the bowlers. I have been doing okay.”