In the ever-competitive cricket world where legacies are built on performances, records, and unforgettable moments, Harbhajan Singh once again found himself in the spotlight. His latest reveal — the Harbhajan Singh all time XI — has triggered intense debate, especially because it does not include modern giant Virat Kohli. Fans reacted instantly, and conversations spread across social media and expert panels. Let’s take a closer and more balanced look at Harbhajan’s choices and the logic behind his selections.
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Opening Pair: A Blend of Steel and Fire
Harbhajan chooses Alastair Cook and Virender Sehwag to open his dream XI. Cook, England’s highest Test run-scorer, represents remarkable discipline and mental strength — qualities Harbhajan has always admired.
Standing at the other end is Sehwag, a fearless striker who can destroy bowling attacks before they settle. This pairing in the Harbhajan Singh all time XI offers a beautiful contrast: Cook’s patience and Sehwag’s raw aggression.
One former England analyst once said, “You can’t coach temperament like Cook’s — he was born for long innings.”
Harbhajan seems to agree.
Middle Order: Class, Dominance, and Leadership
The middle order of Harbhajan’s XI is nothing short of legendary — Brian Lara, Sachin Tendulkar, and Steve Waugh.
- Brian Lara takes the No. 3 position. With his artistry, elegance, and unmatched flair, Lara remains a timeless favorite. His world-record 400* alone makes him an automatic pick.
- Sachin Tendulkar, the undisputed master, follows at No. 4. His consistency across eras and conditions captures the essence of greatness.
- Steve Waugh steps in at No. 5 as captain — a leader known for his grit and icy calmness under pressure.
Cricket historian Michael Atherton once remarked, “Waugh didn’t just play cricket — he imposed himself on moments.” That aura explains his selection perfectly.
This section naturally aligns with many classic Test debates on sites like ESPN Cricinfo, where similar historical comparisons continue to thrive.
All-Round Strength and the Keeper’s Role
At No. 6, Harbhajan places Jacques Kallis, arguably the most complete cricketer of the modern era. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball gives Harbhajan’s XI perfect balance.
Next comes Kumar Sangakkara, not only as wicket-keeper but also as a calm, technically sound batter. Sangakkara’s poise and cricketing intelligence ensure stability in the lower-middle order.
These choices highlight the analytical depth often covered in Harbhajan Singh best Test XI analysis, a topic that fans explore regularly.
Bowling Attack: Ruthless, Skilled, and Diverse
Harbhajan’s bowling unit reads like a celebration of cricket’s greatest match-winners:
- Shane Warne – the magician of leg spin
- Wasim Akram – arguably the most skillful left-arm pacer ever
- Glenn McGrath – master of line, length, and relentless discipline
- James Anderson – swing king across generations
This combination provides pace, movement, control, and spin — the full bag of tricks. Harbhajan rounds it off with Muttiah Muralitharan as the 12th man, a nod to one of the sport’s most prolific wicket-takers.
Fans who follow deep cricket analytics or explore Indian cricket legends in Harbhajan’s all-time XI discussions would instantly understand the balance of this attack.
Virat Kohli’s Absence: The Center of the Storm
No part of Harbhajan’s list caused more noise than the absence of Virat Kohli, thats why Harbhajan Singh all time XI is getting discussed. Kohli’s commitment, intensity, and world-class batting make him one of the most influential players of this generation.
So why leave him out?
Harbhajan’s approach seems rooted in picking players whose complete careers are already established — cricketers who shaped eras rather than those still writing their chapters. It’s a traditionalist mindset, prioritizing long-term legacy over modern dominance.
The debate continues, and it’s one of the reasons fans keep returning to platforms like cricketer.io for wider perspectives and discussions.
Harbhajan Singh’s Final XI (Full List)
- Alastair Cook
- Virender Sehwag
- Brian Lara
- Sachin Tendulkar
- Steve Waugh (c)
- Jacques Kallis
- Kumar Sangakkara (wk)
- Shane Warne
- Wasim Akram
- Glenn McGrath
- James Anderson
- Muttiah Muralitharan (12th man)
FAQs: Harbhajan Singh all time XI
Why did Harbhajan Singh leave out Virat Kohli from his all-time XI?
Because Harbhajan prioritised players with complete, career-defining legacies rather than active players.
Who opens in Harbhajan Singh’s all-time XI?
Alastair Cook and Virender Sehwag form the opening pair.
Who is the captain of Harbhajan Singh’s XI?
Steve Waugh is Harbhajan’s captain of choice.
What makes Jacques Kallis crucial in this XI?
His all-round ability adds rare balance—elite batting + wicket-taking medium pace.
Why is Muttiah Muralitharan the 12th man?
Harbhajan wanted extra spin depth while keeping the XI’s pace-spin balance intact.