You And I Both Know Truth Has Two Sides - Harbhajan Singh To Reveal Details About The Infamous 'Monkeygate'

Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has revealed that he will be elaborating on his side of the story in the infamous ‘Monkeygate’ scandal that marred India’s tour of Australia back in 2008.

Harbhajan was involved in an ugly spat with former Australian batter, Andrew Symonds, which escalated rather quickly. There were allegations of racism on Harbhajan, with the then Aussie captain, Ricky Ponting, informing the umpires that Harbhajan had called Symonds a ‘monkey’.

The issue was taken to courts where it was settled. Harbhajan was banned for three Tests but it was revoked soon after and he was fined 50% of his match fee. Speaking about the incident, Harbhajan said that truth has two sides and his version will be revealed soon.

“It was something that was uncalled for. Whatever happened during that day in Sydney shouldn’t have happened and also what it led to. It was really unnecessary. But forget about who said what. You and I both know truth has two sides,” Harbhajan told PTI.

No one cared what I went through in those few weeks – Harbhajan Singh

The scandal took its toll on Harbhajan Singh, who revealed he was mentally sinking during the entire episode. Although he was bitter about the mess at the time, he has since moved on from it and has no regrets about the incident.

“No one cared about my side of the truth in the whole episode. No one cared what I went through in those few weeks and how I was mentally sinking. I have never extensively given my side of the story but people will know about it in my upcoming autobiography. What I went through shouldn’t have happened to anyone.“

“If at that point, if someone would have cared for me and in a broader sense, how Indian cricket handled its players, maybe my career could have been different. But no regrets. Those who were decision-makers did what they felt was right. So I have nothing to say. Yes, I was bitter back then but when I now look at things, no bitterness,” Harbhajan added.

Harbhajan retired from all forms of cricket on December 24, Friday.

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