Harbhajan Singh has always played the game in the right spirit. Already established as one of the greatest exponents of off-spin bowling, I am sure he has no intention whatsoever of deviating from the norms of cricket and gaining an undue advantage.
After all the tests and analysis, the biomechanics professors in Australia had cleared his action, clearly mentioning that in Harbhajan's case, the bend was well below the permissible limits set by the ICC's bowling expert panel.
To my knowledge, the findings of the tests didn't even suggest rectification to go through any remedial work on his action. But the match referee, Chris Broad, has once again questioned the legitimacy of his 'doosra', thus shattering the very spirit and confidence of the Indian off-spinner.
What is more baffling is that the ICC's directive got leaked to the press within 24 hours after the Indian team management was intimated.
The matter has been blown out of proportion afflicting severe mental damage to the player under scrutiny. The ICC should be more careful and understand the sensitivity of the issue, as it is dangerously treading on the fine line, which can destroy a cricketer's career.
It would be interesting to see how the case is handled now. The Indian management is left with two tricky options: either carry out the remedial action to rectify Harbhajan's action -- which means to agree that his action is not flawless -- or contest the decision, seeking final verdict from the ICC bowling review group.
Chris Broad's doubts about Harbhajan's action are only his perspective and opinion, as it is not corroborated with any technical support or evidence. No human eye can account the degree of straightening, that too when witnessed in real time. Pure interpretation of the videos recorded from the telecast feed might not be conclusive and accurate information either.
The closest that one can get to fetch the right information is when the player's elbow and wrist are wired and measured. Unless there is right technology at the ground level, the chucking menace would haunt the players, the team and the game of cricket on the whole.
If the Indian team chooses to go for the second option, I wonder what means and methods would the ICC's bowling review panel adopt. I hope the ICC bowling authorities will not just look into the inconclusive videos and deliver their judgment.
I can well imagine the trauma Harbhajan would be going through. One has to be a real genius to play and perform in a Test match when put under such clouds.
India must look for a win in the third Test and finish the series in style. Skipper Sourav Ganguly must come out of his rough patch in this game. He has done a decent job as a captain but some runs under his belt will always help his cause.
A captain is twice as effective if he is performing with the bat or the ball. In the current context and form of the Indian cricket team, picking Anil Kumble and Rahul Dravid in the side itself is great captaincy.
I would be very keen to see the strip that would be used for this Test. Rahul has a jinx to break, as he has no hundred in his hometown. The KSCA has a new look, with the latest mega screen being installed at the far end. The capacity increased lately, and with plenty of entertainment scheduled during the Test, there should be a real festive atmosphere.
Previous columns:
A story of courageous fighting
Looking for a fifth dimension in bowling
Sachin's partnerships with Rahul were crucial
