Former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has ignited a storm on social media after making a contentious remark that many interpreted as a subtle dig at Virat Kohli and his massive fan following.
Harbhajan’s comment came during a panel discussion ahead of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s home match against Kolkata Knight Riders on Saturday in IPL 2025.
While weighing in on the buzz surrounding MS Dhoni’s potential IPL future, Harbhajan suggested that the 43-year-old CSK legend should keep playing as long as he can. However, it was what he said next that caused a major backlash online.
“He can play as long as he can. Had it been my team, I would have made a different decision. Fans will want him to continue playing,” Harbhajan told Star Sports. “I feel he has a real fan base; the rest are all on social media, which are even paid fans. Leave them out, because if we start discussing that, the discussion will go in a different direction.”
Panelist and fellow former cricketer Aakash Chopra appeared stunned by Harbhajan’s bold take. "Itna sach nehi bolna tha (You weren’t supposed to be this honest)," Chopra quipped. But Harbhajan doubled down: “Someone had to.”
Harbhajan’s “paid fans” jibe didn’t go unnoticed by viewers, who instantly assumed he was referring to Kohli, especially given the timing. The internet erupted with criticism, accusing the ex-cricketer of taking an unnecessary and disrespectful shot at Kohli, who continues to enjoy a cult-like following across the country. The timing of Harbhajan's remark only added fuel to the fire.
Kohli was set to return to action in front of a packed M Chinnaswamy crowd for the first time since his shocking Test retirement announcement on May 12. Fans paid an emotional tribute by flooding the stadium in white, wearing Kohli's India Test No. 18 jersey, a powerful gesture for a player who retired after a 14-year-long career in red-ball cricket.
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Unfortunately, the highly anticipated RCB vs KKR clash was washed out without a ball being bowled. While the result gave Bengaluru a valuable point, taking them back to the top of the table, their playoff qualification is still not sealed.
RCB will need at least one win from their remaining two games to confirm a spot in the top four. Meanwhile, KKR, led by Ajinkya Rahane, have officially been knocked out of IPL 2025.
