The never seen before video of Harbhajan Singh slapping S Sreesanth has been out on social media. Lalit Modi, the ex-IPL chairman has shared the video. The Indian Premier League (IPL) began its journey in 2008 with glamour, big-hitting cricket, and electrifying entertainment. But alongside the cricketing fireworks, one shocking moment stole the spotlight and is still remembered as one of IPL’s darkest controversies — the infamous Harbhajan Singh–Sreesanth slapgate. With never-seen-before footage now doing the rounds, fans are once again reminded of the heated clash between two Indian cricket stars.
Watch: Harbhajan Singh Slapped Sreesanth In 2008
On April 25, 2008, during a match in Mohali, Kings XI Punjab defeated Mumbai Indians. Post the game, in what was supposed to be a routine handshake, things went out of control. Stand-in captain Harbhajan Singh allegedly slapped pacer S Sreesanth, leaving him in tears on live television.
Reports at the time suggested that Harbhajan was provoked by Sreesanth’s aggressive on-field attitude and a mocking “well played” comment. The visual of Sreesanth crying quickly went viral, sparking nationwide outrage and putting the brand-new league in the middle of its first big scandal. However, the footage of Harbhajan slapping Sreesanth was not revealed to the public. But, now the footage is out on social media.
BCCI’s Immediate Response
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) wasted no time in addressing the controversy. Match referee Farokh Engineer led the inquiry, and Harbhajan was found guilty of misconduct. The punishment was severe — an 11-match ban for the rest of the IPL 2008 season, along with the forfeiture of his match fee for India’s ODI series against South Africa. This strong disciplinary action sent a clear message about maintaining professionalism in the league.
Harbhajan Singh’s Honest Confession Years Later
In July 2025, Harbhajan Singh finally spoke aabout the slapgate incident and admitted that he deeply regrets it. What hit him hardest, he revealed, was a conversation with Sreesanth’s daughter that left him broken. Harbhajan said.
“My heart was shattered and I was on the verge of tears. I was asking myself what impression I’ve left on her. She must see me as the guy who hit her father. I felt so bad. I still apologize to his daughter that I can’t do anything. I keep telling her, ‘If there’s anything I can do to make you feel better and make you think I’m not that kind of person, please tell me’.”
His words show the human side of an incident that has haunted him throughout his career. The Harbhajan–Sreesanth slapgate remains etched in IPL’s history as one of its most controversial moments. While both cricketers eventually moved past the spat, the resurfacing of the footage has reignited discussions among fans. Harbhajan’s heartfelt admission proves that even legends carry regrets, and that sometimes, the toughest battles aren’t on the pitch but within oneself.
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