After Suresh Raina, Harbhajan Singh became the second key player of Chennai Super Kings to quit IPL 2020. After reports of him walking out of MS Dhoni-led CSK team spread like wildfire, he took to Twitter to confirm the same. The Off-spinner cited personal reasons and requested for privacy. However, later it was being reported that the 13 CSK personnel testing positive for Coronavirus might have influenced the player's decision. But Bhajji’s friend said the Dubai situation had nothing to do with his announcement.
On conditions of anonymity, Harbhajan’s friend told PTI, “It wasn’t about the Covid cases in the Chennai camp. But if you have a wife and toddler staying in India for three months, your mind will be diverted and you can’t fully focus on the game. Then it doesn’t matter whether you get two crore or 20 crore. Money is last on your mind.” As per reports, Bhajji was bought by the franchise for Rs 2 crore this season.
The Week quoted Harbhajan Singh saying, “When I told the CSK management about my decision, they were very supportive and I can't thank them enough for that. I would only say that there are times when family takes precedence over sport. My young family is my focus of attention now. But yes my heart will be in the UAE with my team. I am sure that Chennai Super Kings will put up yet another fabulous performance." Meanwhile, IPL 2020 is set to take off from September 19 and schedules will be out tomorrow.
Confirming his withdrawal, Bhajji tweeted yesterday, “Dear Friends I will not be playing IPL this year due to personal reasons. These are difficult times and I would expect some privacy as I spend time with my family. @ChennaiIPL. CSK management has been extremely supportive and I wish them a great IPL Stay safe and Jai Hind.” (ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Suresh Raina BREAKS His Silence After Exit; Addresses Hotel Room Rift Rumours With MS Dhoni)
Images Source: instagram.com/harbhajan3