Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has launched a sharp critique of the team management following India's defeat in the second One-Day International against South Africa, specifically questioning the continued absence of seasoned pacer Mohammed Shami from the playing eleven.
Record Chase Sinks India Despite Kohli-Gaikwad Tons
The match, played on December 5, 2025, saw India post a formidable total of 358 for 5, powered by centuries from Virat Kohli and Ruturaj Gaikwad. However, South Africa, led by a brilliant century from captain Aiden Markram and vital half-centuries from Matthew Breetzke and Dewald Brevis, chased down the target with eight balls to spare. This successful pursuit equalled the record for the highest chase ever achieved against India in ODI cricket.
Harbhajan Singh Points to Lack of Experience
While dew in the second innings was a factor, Harbhajan Singh emphasized that the lack of experience in the bowling attack significantly hurt India's chances. Speaking on his YouTube channel after the match, the legendary off-spinner directly targeted the selection policy.
"Where is Shami? I don't know why Shami is not playing," Harbhajan said. He acknowledged that with Jasprit Bumrah rested, the team should have included either Mohammed Shami or Mohammed Siraj for their proven wicket-taking ability. He pointed out that Shami has been performing well in domestic cricket this season but hasn't worn the India jersey since March 2025.
"I get it, you have Prasidh (Krishna), he is a good bowler, but he still has a lot to learn. You had good bowlers, and you have slowly sidelined them," Harbhajan added, expressing concern over the phasing out of established names.
Learning to Win Without Bumrah
Harbhajan highlighted the stark difference in the bowling unit with and without Jasprit Bumrah. "With Bumrah, this is a different bowling attack, and without Bumrah, it is entirely different attack altogether. We have to learn the art of winning games without Jasprit Bumrah," he stated.
He cited the example of India's Test series win in England, where Mohammed Siraj excelled in Bumrah's absence. However, he stressed that in the shorter formats, India needs to identify match-winners consistently. "In shorter formats, we need to find people who can win you games, whether it be fast bowling or spin. Find spinners who can come in and take wickets. There is Kuldeep (Yadav), but what about the rest?" he questioned.
The series is now poised for a decider after South Africa's thrilling win. India had won the first ODI narrowly, defending a total of 349. In that game, despite South Africa being reduced to 11 for 3 by Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh, the visitors fought back through Breetzke (72) and Marco Jansen's blistering 70 off 39 balls, eventually falling short by 17 runs. The final match will determine the winner of the three-game series.
