India’s two legendary off-spinners, Harbhajan Singh and Ravichandran Ashwin, recently came together for a candid conversation on Ashwin’s YouTube show ‘Kutti Stories With Ash’, where they finally addressed the long-standing rumours of an alleged rift between them.
Harbhajan and Ashwin have often been compared — with Ashwin rising to prominence towards the end of Harbhajan’s career. Naturally, this led to widespread speculation about possible tension or jealousy between the two. But the duo cleared the air with mutual respect and openness.
Ashwin, who retired from international cricket in December 2024, decided to confront the subject directly during the conversation.
“This whole jealousy bit, before I allow you to answer that, let me clarify something. People look at everything from their perspective. For example, if they are passing a comment on me, they believe that others would see the world through their eyes,” Ashwin said.
He added,
“Their comments that you (Harbhajan) are jealous of this person who is interviewing you today (Ashwin), what would that be about, Bhajji pa?”
Harbhajan responded calmly, questioning the very idea of resentment toward a teammate.
“Do you think I am jealous of you? You are sitting with me today, and we have spoken at length. Do you think I am that kind of person?”
Ashwin agreed, adding a thoughtful perspective on human emotions.
“Even if you were jealous at one point in time, I think it’s justified. That is my point, and I will never take it wrong because we are all human,” he said.
He went on to share how similar conspiracy theories arose around his own retirement.
“Naturally, it is bound to be like that. Some people believe I retired because Washington Sundar is in the thick of things. All of this is the perspective of others,” Ashwin added.
Both spinners share remarkable records. Harbhajan, known as the “Turbanator”, picked over 400 wickets in Test cricket, while Ashwin is India’s second-highest wicket-taker across formats, only behind Anil Kumble.
Their heartfelt exchange not only laid to rest old rumours but also highlighted the maturity and camaraderie that often go unnoticed in elite sports.
