Harbhajan Singh Picks S Sreesanth as Roommate to 'Solve Problems' Amidst Lingering 'Slapgate' Tensions
Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has surprisingly chosen S Sreesanth as his ideal roommate, believing it could resolve their bitter, decade-long history stemming from the 2008 'slapgate' incident.
In a candid revelation that has sent ripples through the cricketing world, former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has expressed a desire to have his erstwhile teammate and long-time adversary, S Sreesanth, as his roommate. The "Turbanator" believes that such close quarters could finally iron out the deeply entrenched issues that have marred their relationship for over a decade. Sreesanth Dares Harbhajan Singh for In-Ring Fight: 'Do You Have the Guts?' Amidst Renewed 'Slapgate' Row
Harbhajan's surprising choice, made in a recent interaction with PTI on August 13, 2026, stems from a pragmatic approach to their strained dynamic. "If both of us are in the same room, a lot of things will get solved. I see it from that perspective. You can pick him as my roommate. I have no problems," Harbhajan stated.
A History of Bitterness
The relationship between Harbhajan Singh, 46, and S Sreesanth, 43, has been notoriously acrimonious, largely defined by the infamous 'slapgate' incident during the inaugural Indian Premier League (IPL) season in 2008. The altercation, which saw Harbhajan slap Sreesanth after a match between Mumbai Indians and Kings XI Punjab, led to disciplinary action against Harbhajan and became one of the most talked-about controversies in Indian cricket history.
Despite a period of apparent reconciliation where Sreesanth even referred to Harbhajan as an "elder brother" in 2023, and Harbhajan repeatedly expressed regret for the incident, old wounds have recently been reopened. The latest flashpoint occurred after Harbhajan featured in an advertisement that Sreesanth perceived as a direct reference to the 2008 'slapgate' incident.
The Recent Escalation
Sreesanth, feeling aggrieved by what he viewed as Harbhajan profiting from their past controversy, issued a fiery public challenge. He dared Harbhajan to settle their differences in a boxing ring, questioning if the former spinner had the "guts" to face him. Sreesanth, who reportedly is involved with the Bear Knuckle Fight League, even suggested he was ready for a real contest, not an act.
This recent flare-up saw Sreesanth declare that he no longer shares a relationship with Harbhajan and has even blocked him, a modern gesture symbolizing the complete breakdown of communication. Sreesanth Reignites 'Slapgate' Row, Accuses Harbhajan Singh of Profiting from 2008 IPL Incident
Harbhajan's Enduring Regret
For his part, Harbhajan has consistently voiced his remorse over the 2008 incident. He has often described it as a mistake he would erase if given the chance. The lasting impact of his actions was brought home profoundly when Sreesanth's daughter reportedly confronted him, stating, "Don't talk to me, you hit my father." This emotional encounter deeply affected Harbhajan, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of their public dispute on both their families.
Harbhajan's proposal for a shared living space, therefore, appears to be a genuine attempt to bridge the chasm that has existed between the two cricketing stalwarts. Only time will tell if this bold suggestion can truly pave the way for a lasting resolution to one of Indian cricket's most enduring sagas.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 13, 2026 11:20 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).