Harbhajan Singh Defends ‘Slogger’ Jibe For Abhishek Sharma

Harbhajan Singh dismissed Mohammad Amir’s criticism of Abhishek Sharma ahead of the India-Pakistan T20 World Cup clash.

Former India cricketer Harbhajan Singh has strongly criticised Mohammad Amir for calling Abhishek Sharma a slogger ahead of the high-voltage India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 clash in Colombo on Sunday, February 15.

Amir, speaking on a talk show, had claimed that Abhishek was not a technically sound batter and could be dismissed easily with the right planning. The comments drew sharp reactions from fans and former players, especially with the marquee contest just hours away.

Despite the criticism, Amir stood by his opinion, insisting that Abhishek was yet to be fully tested at the international level. However, Harbhajan firmly countered the remarks while speaking to Vikrant Gupta on the Sports Tak YouTube channel, saying that Amir’s assessment was unfair and inaccurate.

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“I mean, come on, what am I even supposed to say to that? He just gets up and says anything. If you call him a slogger, then fine, let him smash sixes, but he is a proper batter who has every shot in the book,” Harbhajan said.

The former off-spinner went on to describe Abhishek as a complete batter who understands the game and plays with clarity against all kinds of bowling.

“He (Abhishek) is a complete batter who knows where the ball is coming and plays. He plays the over-cover shot, hits through point. He can go long-on, long-off, midwicket; he has every shot,” Harbhajan added.

Harbhajan chose not to stretch the argument further, stating that Abhishek has already proven his quality on the international stage. However, he issued a clear warning to Pakistan, saying that the young opener could single-handedly change the game if he settles in at the crease.

“If I start naming real sloggers, some people might get offended, but I don’t want to create more drama. Still, calling anyone just a slogger like that, I don’t think it is fair,” Harbhajan said.

“And just wait and watch tomorrow. If Abhishek stays at the crease, he will remind everyone who he is. For the last 4–5 months, he has already been in your dreams. If he goes big tomorrow, then for the next six months, he will be in your dreams again,” Harbhajan added.

India and Pakistan are set to face each other in a crucial group-stage encounter, with both teams aiming to strengthen their position in the T20 World Cup 2026.