Indian cricket has witnessed many memorable incidents, but few have remained as controversial as the infamous “slapgate” clash between Sreesanth and Harbhajan Singh during the first season of the IPL in 2008. The altercation, which took place after a match between Kings XI Punjab and Mumbai Indians, saw Harbhajan slapping Sreesanth and became one of the most unforgettable moments in the league’s history.
Years later, the issue has been dragged back into the spotlight after former IPL commissioner Lalit Modi released an exclusive clip of the incident during a podcast with Michael Clarke. The video quickly went viral on social media, sparking outrage. Among those angered was Sreesanth’s wife, Bhuvneshwari, who strongly condemned Modi’s actions, calling them “disgusting.”
Bhuvneshwari Slams Lalit Modi and Michael Clarke
The release of the video has left fans shocked, but it drew even harsher criticism from Sreesanth’s wife, who accused Lalit Modi and Michael Clarke of exploiting a painful past for personal gain. The footage was reportedly captured by Modi’s personal security camera, even though the official broadcasters had switched off their feed.
Furious at the resurfacing of the controversy, Bhuvneshwari openly lashed out, saying, “Shame on you @lalitkmodi and @michaelclarkeofficial. You people are not even human to drag up something from 2008 just for your own cheap publicity and views. Both @sreesanthnair36 and Harbhajan have long moved on, they are fathers now with school-going children, and yet you try to throw them back into an old wound. Absolutely disgusting, heartless, and inhuman.” Her statement reflected deep disappointment over how an old controversy was being used for attention despite both players having reconciled and moved forward in their lives.
A Painful Reminder For Families
Seventeen years after the incident, both Sreesanth and Harbhajan Singh have overcome that chapter of their careers and built new lives for themselves and their families. However, the resurfacing of the video has reopened old wounds for them. In her message, Bhuvneshwari pointed out the emotional toll it takes not just on the cricketers but also on their children.
She wrote, “@sreesanthnair36 has rebuilt his life with dignity and grace after every hardship he faced. As his wife, and as the mother of his children, it is deeply painful for our family to see this resurface after 18 long years. Families are being forced to relive trauma that was buried decades ago only so you can chase views. This doesn’t just hurt the players, it scars their innocent children who now have to face questions and shame for no fault of theirs.”
She added, “You should be sued for doing something so cheap and inhumane. Sreesanth is a man of strength and character, and no video can take that dignity away from him. Fear God before you hurt families and innocent children for your own gain.” In the aftermath of the original incident, Harbhajan Singh had faced an eight-match ban and later accepted his mistake. Yet, the resurfacing of the clip has brought back unnecessary controversy, with Sreesanth’s family urging people to let the past remain in the past.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
