Tweak in the tale as Harbhajan turns batter

Sachin Tendulkar jokes that Harbhajan Singh sometimes thinks he's Don Bradman, that's how seriously he takes his batting. N Ananthanarayanan reports.

Sachin Tendulkar jokes that Harbhajan Singh sometimes thinks he's Don Bradman, that's how seriously he takes his batting.

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But jokes apart, Harbhajan again showed on Monday that he could make significant contributions with the bat when he scored a fighting 70.

The off spinner has worked hard on his batting. In the last three years, he has rescued his team several times with the willow. On the 2007-8 tour of Australia, Harbhajan scored half-centuries and shared century partnerships with Sachin Tendulkar and skipper Anil Kumble, respectively, in the Sydney and Adelaide Tests. Last year, he smashed back-to-back centuries against New Zealand.

On Monday, Harbhajan raised a century stand with Suresh Raina that could prove decisive on a pitch turning big. He walked in with India reeling on 85 for six, but quickly too the attack to the bowlers.

He eased the pressure on Raina and then settled down to build the innings. How valuable his contribution was became clear when India lost the last three wickets for just 15 more runs after his dismissal.

Harbhajan has been showing leadership and better temperament, often taking charge as a senior player during the one-dayers. Whether it's guiding Raina with field placements, bowling changes or mentoring other spinners, he’s always there.