XtraTime Web Desk: India off spinner Harbhajan Singh on Saturday clarified why the Punjab Government withdrew his nomination for the Khel Ratna award. There was speculation that the Turbanator’s name was not sent to the Sports Ministry intentionally by the Punjab Government.
Harbhajan clarified the doubts that he was the one who had asked them to withdraw his name.
In a series of tweets Harbhajan explained why he preferred his name not to be sent for the Khel Ratna award.
He tweeted, “Dear friends, I have been flooded with calls as to why Punjab Govt withdrew my name from Khel Ratna nominations. The truth is I am not eligible for Khel Ratna which primarily considers the international performances in last three years,” the 40-year old posted on his Twitter account.
“The Punjab Govt is not at fault here as they have rightly withdrawn my name. Would urge my friends in media not to speculate. Thank you and regards.
He further clarified that his name was sent late last year. “Lot of confusion and speculation regarding my nomination for Khel Ratna so let me clarify. Yes last year the nomination was sent late but this year I only asked Punjab Govt to withdraw my nomination because I don’t fall under the 3-year eligibility criteria. Don’t speculate further,” he added.
Harbhajan has played 103 Tests and 236 ODIs for India claiming 417 and 269 wickets respectively.