Harbhajan looks forward to the opening match against RCB

India’s off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has been struggling with form and is in a situation to perform better in the IPL to earn a place in the ICC Champions Trophy squad. He however is geared up for this season of IPL and looking forward to their opening clash against Royal Challengers Bangalore. With new captain Ricky Ponting, Mumbai is certainly hoping for a title win this season.

Harbhajan Singh has said that the focus would be on the championship straightaway as we had been the favourites in the last two seasons, but fumbled in the final stage of the IPL.

“The focus will be on winning the championship. My own performance will be important as that of the team’s performance” he said.

He also said that he’s not looking way ahead for Champions Trophy as he looks to concentrate on the present and do well in the IPL, which ultimately would earn him a place in the Champions Trophy. “I am not thinking far ahead as I would like to concentrate on the present. Each and every game is important and I would like to take more wickets”.

“The IPL is a format which is not too friendly for the bowlers. There will be days when you can go for plenty but one can certainly buy a lot of wickets in the bargain”.

He was also excited that his partner Anil Kumble is his team mentor as both of them had a successful partnership in Test matches.

“It’s great to have Anil around. It not only helps to have him around while talking cricket but other aspects too. He’s someone who can gauge my state of mind and has always been there to give me right kind of advice”.

Harbhajan Singh’s international career has been like a roller coaster and this season would perhaps bring the best out of him. He said that its rigors have taught him to value relationships above everything else.

“When I played 100 Tests, it felt great but I have begun to realize that relationships that you develop over the years are more important”.

“It’s those you have played cricket with and have known along the way. I would rather be known as a cricketer, who was a good human being than being dubbed as a top player and poor human being”.

Harbhajan Singh who had handed over the captaincy to Ponting is eager for their opening clash against Royal Challengers on 4th April. “I am looking forward to the opening game. Our side captained by a leader who has tons and tons of experience, and hopefully we should lift the trophy”.