Harbhajan Singh Biography: Life Story, Career, Records, Family & Achievements
Introduction
Harbhajan Singh, fondly known as the “Turbanator”, is one of India’s greatest off-spin bowlers. With his fiery temperament, unmatched spin skills, and never-give-up attitude, he became a key pillar of Indian cricket during the 2000s. From spinning Australia out in 2001 to lifting the 2011 World Cup, Harbhajan’s journey is nothing short of inspirational.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Harbhajan Singh Plaha
- Date of Birth: 3 July 1980
- Birthplace: Jalandhar, Punjab, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Cancer
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 72 kg
- Hair Color: Black
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
Early Life & Family Background
Harbhajan Singh was born in a Sikh family to Sardev Singh Plaha, a businessman, and Avtar Kaur. Initially trained to become a batsman, he was later advised by his first coach, Charanjit Singh Bhullar, to focus on spin bowling. His hard work and passion soon paid off, and he became one of India’s leading spinners.
Cricket Career
International Debut
- Test Debut: 25 March 1998 vs Australia.
- ODI Debut: 17 April 1998 vs New Zealand.
- T20I Debut: 1 December 2006 vs South Africa.
Rise to Fame
- Harbhajan’s career-defining moment came in 2001 against Australia, where he took 32 wickets in 3 Tests, including India’s first-ever Test hat-trick.
- Became one of the most feared off-spinners in world cricket, especially against strong batting sides.
Major Contributions
- Part of India’s 2007 ICC World T20 and 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup winning squads.
- Played 103 Tests, 236 ODIs, and 28 T20Is, picking 711 international wickets.
Records & Achievements
- First Indian bowler to take a hat-trick in Test cricket (2001 vs Australia).
- Second-highest wicket-taking off-spinner in Tests for India after R. Ashwin.
- Among the top wicket-takers in IPL, playing for Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, and Kolkata Knight Riders.
- Recipient of Padma Shri (2009) and Arjuna Award (2003).
IPL Career
Harbhajan Singh was one of the most consistent performers in IPL history. He played a key role in Mumbai Indians’ title wins, later contributing to CSK and KKR as a senior leader.
Retirement
Harbhajan Singh announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on 24 December 2021, marking the end of a glorious career spanning over two decades.
Personal Life
Harbhajan married Geeta Basra, a Bollywood actress, in 2015. The couple has two children – daughter Hinaya Heer Plaha and son Jovan Veer Singh Plaha.
Beyond Cricket
- Entered politics and became a Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) in 2022.
- Actively involved in social work and charity initiatives.
- Has appeared in TV shows, Punjabi films, and brand endorsements.
Legacy
Harbhajan Singh will forever be remembered as the Turbanator who terrorized world-class batsmen with his spin. His aggression, passion, and match-winning spells made him one of India’s greatest cricketing icons.
