Harbhajan Singh interrupts as Virender Sehwag mocks Sreesanth over 2008 'Slapgate' incident 

ITL 2023 (Image credit: Twitter)

The Indian T20 League has witnessed many controversies over the years, one such shocking incident being the infamous 'Slapgate' in 2008. The cricketing fraternity was stunned when Harbhajan Singh slapped Sreesanth, however, the two have now moved on and become good friends. During the ITL commentary, Virender Sehwag, who was on air with Harbhajan and Sreesanth, brought up the incident again.

The incident happened when Sreesanth represented the Punjab franchise and Harbhajan was playing for Mumbai in the inaugural edition of the cash-rich league. The former Indian pacer was seen shedding tears after the spin wizard Harbhajan slapped him. Both have forgotten the incident and have been seen together many times at various functions. The controversy hit the headlines once again after Sehwag mocked Sreesanth while the pacer was sharing about his friendship with Bhaji.

"I want to share that before playing a Test or any other match, I always hugged Bhajji pa (Harbhajan Singh). My performance always used to be better," said Sreesanth.

Taking a dig at the two cricketers, the former India opening batter immediately asked: "When did this hug trend start! Probably after the incident in Mohali."

Although he did not mention the 'Slapgate', it was clear that Sehwag was referring to the 2008 incident. Harbhajan immediately interrupted the conversation by saying, "Bhul jao yaar" (forget it man).

The hug trend started in 2006: Sreesanth

But Sreesanth didn't think much of Sehwag's mock and replied that the ritual started in 2006. He also exchanged a handshake with Harbhajan.

The 40-year-old pacer had earlier opened up about his relationship with Harbhajan saying, "Bhajji pa has supported me from the beginning in every way".

"We have always been friends. That was just a misunderstanding and the media made a big noise out of it. I will just say that Bhajji pa has supported me from the beginning in every way, including recently with commentary tips. He has supported me and helped me a lot and I am very thankful to him. There is that song, 'Tere jaisa yaar kaha', that is my relationship with him," Sreesanth had said on Sports Yaari.