In a cricketing world where statistics and individual achievements often define legacy, Harbhajan Singh, the wizard of spin, has stirred controversy with his selection of his all-time Test XI. The list has stirred debate in cricket circles as it does not include modern-day maestro Virat Kohli. Here we take a closer look at Harbhajan’s selection and the reasons behind it:
Opening bet:
Harbhajan’s eleven starts with Alastair Cook and Virender Sehwag. Cook, England’s all-time leading Test run-scorer, brings the necessary courage and resilience. Sehwag, on the other hand, is an aggressive and borderline opener who sets the mood with his fearless approach. This combination promises a combination of defense and attack that sets us up for what is to come.
Middle order:
The heart of Harbhajan’s team is in the middle order with Brian Lara at third, Sachin Tendulkar at fourth and Steve Waugh at fifth, captained by Lara. Lara’s elegance and record-breaking achievements, including the highest individual score in Test cricket, make him an essential choice. Hailed as the ‘God of Cricket’, Tendulkar needs no introduction; his stats speak volumes of his class. Waugh not only adds depth with his leadership skills and resilience but also brings a captain’s mentality to the mix.
All-rounder and wicket-keeper:
At No. 6, Jacques Kallis is a testament to his all-round ability and is often described as a complete cricketer. Substitute Kumar Sangakkara not only has the batting prowess but also a composed demeanor that makes him an ideal choice for such a prestigious eleven.
Bowling attack:
Harbhajan’s bowling line-up reads like a portrait of cricket’s greatest bowlers. Leg-spinning legend Shane Warne and left-arm pace maestro Wasim Akram form a combination that can bat in any batting order. Glenn McGrath’s relentless precision and James Anderson’s swing make them perfectly suited to conditions anywhere in the world. Muttiah Muralitharan, the 12th man, highlights the depth of talent and is ready to step in with his off-spin wizardry.
Virat Kohli’s absence:
The most talked about aspect of Harbhajan’s XI is the absence of Virat Kohli. Known for his consistency and aggressive batting, Virat Kohli has clearly missed the mark. However, Harbhajan’s selection can also be seen as a nod to traditionalists who focus on players who defined an era rather than those who dominate today. Kohli’s absence could also reflect Harbhajan’s preference for players who have finished their careers, giving the XI a historical perspective.
Harbhajan’s all-time Test XI:
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 Muralidaran (12th man).
