Former India cricketer Sreesanth has openly challenged Harbhajan Singh to a boxing match in an attempt to resolve their long-standing differences. The comment once again drew attention to the infamous “Slapgate” controversy that occurred during the 2008 IPL season.
The controversy between the two former India teammates dates back to an IPL match between Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) and Mumbai Indians (MI) in 2008, when Harbhajan was accused of slapping Sreesanth after the game, leading to one of the biggest controversies in IPL history.
Do you have the courage to come into the ring with me? – Sreesanth challenged Harbhajan Singh
During the Lallantop podcast, Sreesanth reacted to an old promotional picture in which he and Harbhajan Singh were wearing boxing gloves. The former India fast bowler challenged Harbhajan to enter the boxing ring and resolve their long-standing differences face to face.
“It’s the same scene, do you have the guts? Do you have the guts to come into the ring with me? Can you sign the autograph? Can you come? I’m asking him. Do you have the guts to come into the ring with me? Wearing these gloves… This is not acting, I’m smiling. You’re not even smiling, I don’t know what you’re doing. Let’s see. This is an open challenge.”
After the breakup of their relationship, Sreesanth broke all contact with Harbhajan and blocked him on communication platforms. He also accused Harbhajan of taking advantage of the controversy.
I’m challenging you, Bhajji” – Sreesanth
Sreesanth insisted that his challenge to Harbhajan Singh was serious and not a publicity stunt. The former India fast bowler said that he is ready to face Harbhajan in the boxing ring.
“I’m in the Bear Knuckle Fight League right now, and I’m also one of the main sponsors of Conor McGregor’s video; a good friend of mine sponsored it, so there’s a promotion too. I’m challenging you, Bhajji (Harbhajan Singh).”
The former fast bowler claimed that the advertisement reopened old wounds and reignited their long-standing dispute. Sreesanth also alleged that Harbhajan had received around ₹1 crore for appearing in the advertisement.
If you have so much problem… – Sreesanth
The former Kerala fast bowler said he wants to resolve his differences with Harbhajan Singh directly rather than through advertisements or public comments. He said that his boxing challenge was a matter of self-respect and urged Harbhajan to face him in the ring.
“I challenge you, Bhajji. If you have so much trouble with the slapping thing and with me and you earn so much… then let me earn too. Come to the ring. I am calling you with all my heart. If we have even a little self-respect, let’s not do advertisements etc. In true sense, for all the Malayalees and all the Sardars, please come. I am waiting.”
After the ‘Slapgate’ case, Harbhajan was punished for slapping Sreesanth. The spinner subsequently apologized publicly for the incident and both former India teammates appeared together at several promotional events. At the time of writing, Harbhajan has not responded publicly to Sreesanth’s boxing challenge.
