1st Test: Harbhajan to play his 100th Test today

Off-spinner recalled to India side to face Australia.

Veteran India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh said he is ‘a bit nervous’ ahead of his 100th Test appearance today against Australia in Chennai, according to The Times of India.

With 408 wickets from 99 Tests at an average of 32.27 and a strike-rate of 68.1, Harbhajan has been one of India’s most prolific bowlers even though he has been enduring a tough phase for some time.

“(The previous) 99 games are gone,” said Harbhajan. “Obviously a bit nervous but I am sure I will be fine. I have faced these situations before.”

Harbhajan said his next target would be to add another 50 Tests to his list.

“I have gone through times when I was not doing well or when I was doing well and got too excited. These things happen. Once I get away with 100, we will see what needs to be done to play another 50-odd. Probably I will have to work even harder.”

Meanwhile, Australia captain Michael Clarke admitted that Harbhajan would be the toughest opponent to face among Indian bowlers when the two teams lock horns today.

“Firstly I think that is great for Harbhajan (playing in his 100th Test),” said Clarke. “On behalf of the Australian team, we congratulate him. It’s a very special achievement. He is going to be very hard to face among all the Indian bowlers but we have our plans to win this Test.”

Lavishing praise on Harbhajan, Clarke said he has always shared a good relationship with the veteran off-spinner on and off the field.

“He has been a wonderful player. I always had a very good relationship with Harbhajan. I have faced challenges on the field as he is a very good bowler. He has played Test matches against the best players and I am sure that this Test is not going to be different.”

Published in The Express Tribune, February 22^nd, 2013.