Harbhajan Singh Discusses His Decade-Long Silence With MS Dhoni And Their Past Interactions

Harbhajan Singh, a former Indian cricketer, has opened up about his distant relationship with MS Dhoni. He revealed that they haven't had a meaningful conversation in over ten years. In an interview with News18, Harbhajan mentioned that their interactions were limited to brief exchanges during their time at Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

The two played together in the Indian Premier League (IPL) from 2018 to 2020. However, their conversations were strictly professional and focused on cricket matters. "No, I don't speak to Dhoni. When I was playing at CSK, that's when we spoke, but otherwise, we haven't spoken. It's been 10 years and more," Harbhajan stated.

Harbhajan expressed uncertainty about the reasons behind their strained relationship. He noted that while they communicated during IPL matches at CSK, it was limited to on-field discussions. "I have no reason; perhaps he does. I don't know what the reasons are," he said. They never visited each other's rooms after matches.

The duo played crucial roles in India's victories in the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup. Harbhajan was renowned for his aggressive bowling style, while Dhoni was celebrated for his strategic leadership as captain.

Despite their professional successes, their personal bond seems to have weakened over time. Harbhajan suggested that Dhoni might have his reasons for keeping a distance but clarified that he holds no grudges against him.

"I don't have anything against him. If he has something to say, he can tell me. But if he did, he would have told me by now," Harbhajan shared with News18. The former spinner also acknowledged that he stopped trying to contact Dhoni.

Communication Challenges

Harbhajan explained that he ceased reaching out after receiving no response to his calls. "I only ring up those who pick up my calls. I don't have the time otherwise," he remarked. He maintains contact with friends who reciprocate communication efforts.

"If I respect you, I hope you will respect me back. Or you respond to me," Harbhajan added. He emphasised that if someone doesn't respond after a couple of attempts, he'll only meet them when necessary.

Despite these differences, Harbhajan continues to express respect for Dhoni and acknowledges the importance of mutual respect in relationships.