With IPL 2025 underway, former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has voiced his concerns over the evolution of spin bowling in the modern T20 era, stating that most spinners today are bowling like fast bowlers rather than focusing on flight and turn.
Harbhajan, one of India’s greatest spinners, believes that many current-generation IPL spinners lack an attacking mindset, opting for a defensive approach instead of actively trying to take wickets.
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Harbhajan Singh on the Decline of Traditional Spin
Speaking to India Today, Harbhajan said:
“I am sorry to say, in T20s or IPL, a lot of spinners are bowling like fast bowlers. They are not spinning the ball. They are not attacking and don’t have the intent of taking wickets. Spinners need to be a little more brave, take chances, spin the ball, look to flight it, and be in the match.”
His remarks come at a time when T20 cricket is increasingly being played on batting-friendly pitches, forcing spinners into a restrictive role. Even Rashid Khan, one of the world’s best T20 spinners, struggled to take wickets in the previous season.
Saliva Ban Lifted in IPL 2025: A Boon for Bowlers?
From IPL 2025, the use of saliva to shine the ball has been reintroduced, after being banned during the COVID-19 pandemic. Harbhajan welcomed this move, saying it will be a game-changer for both pacers and spinners.
“It is good that bowlers can use saliva again. It’s a good thing for bowlers. Soon, we will see it back in international cricket because it is easier to shine the ball with saliva. It brings swing for pacers and drift for spinners.”
Harbhajan’s Players to Watch in IPL 2025
While discussing young talents who could shine in IPL 2025, Harbhajan backed Riyan Parag to make a strong impact. Parag, who led Assam in domestic cricket, will captain the Rajasthan Royals in their first three matches, as Sanju Samson recovers from a finger injury.
“Every year, IPL brings new youngsters into the spotlight, but my eyes will be on Riyan Parag. Assam played well under his captaincy. He is a tremendous talent, and I want to see him mature as a player.”
Apart from Parag, Harbhajan Singh also named several young stars to watch in IPL 2025, including:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Shubman Gill
- Abhishek Sharma
For bowlers, he highlighted:
- Arshdeep Singh
- Harshit Rana
- Varun Chakravarthy
With the season in full swing, it remains to be seen whether spinners take Harbhajan’s advice and bring back traditional spin bowling to IPL 2025!
