Harbhajan Singh’s controversial remark sparked outrage online, with many fans believing it was a veiled dig at Virat Kohli.
Harbhajan Singh Sparks Controversy with Comments on Fan Bases, Draws Criticism for Alleged Dig at Virat Kohli
Former India cricketer Harbhajan Singh has triggered a wave of backlash on social media after making a controversial remark comparing MS Dhoni’s fan base to that of other Indian cricketers. Many on the internet accused the legendary spinner of indirectly targeting Virat Kohli with his comments.
The incident occurred on Saturday during the IPL 2025 clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Kolkata Knight Riders. Harbhajan, who was part of the Star Sports panel, was speaking about Dhoni’s future in the IPL following media reports suggesting the CSK captain might play another season.
While expressing that he would have made a different decision regarding Dhoni had it been his team, Harbhajan added that Dhoni should continue playing for as long as he can. The discussion briefly shifted to fan support, during which Harbhajan said Dhoni is the only cricketer with a “real fan base,” while others depend on “paid fans and PR.”
“He can play as long as he can. Had it been my team, I would have made a different decision. Fans want him to keep playing. I believe he has a real fan base; the rest are all on social media—many of them are even paid fans. Leave them out, because if we start discussing that, the conversation will go elsewhere,” Harbhajan said.
The statement did not go down well with fans on social media, many of whom interpreted it as a veiled jab at Virat Kohli, one of India’s most followed and celebrated cricketers.
🚨Harbhajan Singh: "Only Dhoni has real fans, others rely on social media bots." 😭
— IndiaPulse: News & Trends (@IndiaPulseNow) May 17, 2025
That’s a massive dig – Kohli fans in shambles! 😤
The GOAT debate just got spicier! 🍿#MSDhoni #ViratKohli #chinnaswamystadium #Chokli #RCBvsKKR pic.twitter.com/8sRGvlmfwi
Bengaluru crowd’s tribute to Kohli
Virat Kohli was set to make his first appearance since his shocking announcement of retirement from Test cricket, and fans turned out in full force at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium to honor him. In a powerful tribute, thousands wore his iconic No. 18 India Test jersey, turning the ground into a sea of white to celebrate the legendary batter’s 14-year career in the longest format, which he ended on May 12.
Despite the washout, RCB earned one point, which took them back to the top of the table. However, they are yet to confirm a playoff spot and still require one win from their remaining two matches. Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders, currently in sixth place, have been officially knocked out of playoff contention.
