Harbhajan Singh is one of the most senior pros in the Indian team, and his experience will surely help the youngsters in the squad, as they prepare for the upcoming T20 series against South Africa. Harbhajan has come back into the Indian team, after an impressive stint with Mumbai Indians in the IPL.
Apart from his experience in the bowling department, Harbhajan could come in handy with the bat as well, as he has used the long handle to good effect in the past, which can be understood from his strike rate of 125 in the shortest format of the game.
"Every game for me is important. I will try and give my best in whatever way I can -- be it bowling, batting or fielding or whether it is giving suggestions as well," Harbhajan told BCCI's official website.
As of now, the focus lies on the T20 format, with the first match set to be played in Dharamsala on 2 October. The Indian team have already reached the venue, while South Africa are currently playing their first and only T20 warm up game in Delhi, after which they are expected to fly to Himachal Pradesh.
A solid performance from Harbhajan for team India in the T20 series against South Africa can help him cement his place for the World T20 in India next year. Hence, the series is even more important for the finger spinner.
Harbhajan believes one needs to be wise while bowling in the T20 format. There have been instances when spinners have rolled their arm over in the first over of the game, which he is happy to do.
"T20 is a competition where a lot of things happen in a quick span of time. Under such conditions you need to be a thinking bowler. You have to be prepared to bowl at any stage of the game," added Harbhajan.
"In my case even if I am just fielding, I look to put myself under difficult situations and concentrate on what I need to do. If I see a partnership growing, I look to understand my role as a bowler."
The India-South Africa series is expected to be a huge one, with both teams known for their big stars in the squad. India host South Africa for 3 T20Is, 5 ODIs and 4 Test matches. Harbhajan, who participated in the recent preparatory camp in Bengaluru, believes the Indian team are ready for the mega series to prove.
"This is a very important series for us and we know South Africa are a very good side. Hopefully we will show them what we are made of. We are very much prepared for this competition and I believe it is going to be a good one," said Harbhajan.
