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Colombo: Seven months and two days after his
right index finger was operated upon in Melbourne, Harbhajan Singh returned to
big league action, at the SSC on Wednesday. And, after conceding just 20 runs
(to Bangladesh) in ten overs, remarked he was “satisfied.”
“For the first few moments, it did seem I was starting my career all over again... Lekin, main khush hoon... Of course, I would have been happier had I managed a couple of wickets, but 20 off ten isn’t bad in a ODI... I’m satisfied,” he told The Telegraph at the Taj Samudra.
The off-spinner was utilised in two spells, with the opening one being of eight overs.
Speaking after an extended pool-session, Harbhajan added: “I think the ball came out of the hand rather well and, except one delivery (the last of the first over, which went for six), I got things right... Now, it’s a question of getting more confident.”
Harbhahan, though, didn’t get much time to prepare himself mentally. “It’s in the morning that I was informed Anilbhai (Kumble) is going to be rested and I would make the XI... But theek hai, at this level, one should always be ready for opportunities.”
Much has been made of the ‘magic ball’ he is working on, but Harbhajan clarified he won’t rush: “Sab time pe ho ga... When I’m hundred per cent sure of getting what I want...”
While Harbhajan’s tidy comeback may complicate matters if only one spinner is to be played versus Pakistan on Sunday, captain Sourav Ganguly is, for now, quite happy.
“Bhajji bowled very well... It’s expected of a world-class performer like him.”
Bangladesh coach Dav Whatmore too felt Harbhajan’s return was on expected lines.
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