Harbhajan Singh represents the spirit of the new Indian cricketer. His arrogance and cockiness - traits that earned him a rebuke from the establishment and suspension from the National Cricket Academy - translate into self-belief and passion on the cricket field, and Harbhajan has the talent to match. With a whiplash action, remodelled after he was reported for chucking, he exercises great command over the ball, has the ability to vary his length and pace, and can turn it the other way. His main wicket-taking ball, however, is the one that climbs wickedly on the unsuspecting batsman from a good length, forcing him to alter his stroke at the last second. In March 2001, it proved too much for the all-conquering Australians as Harbhajan collected 32 wickets in three Tests while none of his team-mates managed more than three. Purists might mutter about his lack of loop and flight, but this was one of the greatest performances ever by a finger spinner - at a time when orthodox offspin was supposed to be history. |