Sreesanth’s IPL ‘Slapgate’ Anger Flares Up Again: Harbhajan Singh Blocked on Insta; Says, “No Relationship Anymore”

New Delhi: The most controversial chapter in IPL history—the 2008 ‘Slapgate’ incident—is once again making headlines. This time, the catalyst is former Indian fast bowler S. Sreesanth, who has leveled serious allegations against Harbhajan Singh.

Cricketer Sreesanth has claimed that Harbhajan earned between ₹80 lakh and ₹1 crore from a TV commercial based on that very ‘Slapgate’ controversy. Furthermore, he stated that ‘Bhajji’ asked him to promote the commercial on his own social media platforms—a request Sreesanth found completely unacceptable.

Speaking openly about the issue for the first time during an interview, Sreesanth remarked: “I have always forgiven him, but I could never forget it. If you forget, the other person is bound to repeat the same mistake.”

What Was the ‘Slapgate’ Controversy?
The incident occurred in 2008 during the inaugural season of the IPL, following a match between the Mumbai Indians and Kings XI Punjab, when Harbhajan Singh slapped Sreesanth. In the aftermath of the incident, Sreesanth was seen weeping on the field.

The matter escalated significantly, resulting in a season-long ban for Harbhajan Singh, in addition to a deduction from his match fees. It marked the first major controversy in the IPL’s history, casting a shadow over the tournament’s reputation.

A Rift in the Relationship: Bhajji Blocked on Instagram
Sreesanth has categorically stated that he no longer shares any relationship with Harbhajan Singh. “I used to consider him a brother, but I have now blocked him on Instagram.” He further alleged that there is a stark disparity between Harbhajan’s public persona and his actual behavior. According to Sreesanth, the camaraderie displayed during TV interviews and on public platforms is merely an “act.”

Old Footage Reignites the Fire
The controversy gained further momentum when former IPL Commissioner Lalit Modi recently released a high-definition video of the incident. Emerging nearly two decades later, this footage has once again sparked a heated debate. However, although Harbhajan Singh has already acknowledged this incident as his mistake and expressed regret, Sreesanth believes that an apology loses its significance when financial gain is derived from that very incident.