Sreesanth reveals 'many Malayalis said I should have hit Harbhajan Singh', explains why he chose not to

Sreesanth reveals 'many Malayalis said I should have hit Harbhajan Singh'

Former India pacer S Sreesanth discussed the controversial "Slapgate" incident from the 2008 IPL involving Harbhajan Singh and explained why he decided not to retaliate despite taking a slap from the ex-spinner. He revisited the incident in a recent interview on a YouTube show with Ranjini Haridas. During the interaction Sreesanth said he has frequently been asked, particularly by Malayalis, why he didn't fight back.

The incident took place in the inaugural edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) after Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) upset Mumbai Indians in Mohali. The incident is still remarked as the cash-rich league's first significant controversy after Sreesanth was shown sobbing on live television.

WATCH: Cristiano Ronaldo leaves fans stunned with jaw-dropping bicycle kick goal, rewinds Juventus memories

The video evidence was concealed for eighteen years despite the moment receiving extensive media coverage. However, it was made public by former IPL chairman Lalit Modi on Michael Clarke's Beyond 23 podcast earlier this year, sparking comments from fans and families, including Sreesanth's wife and Harbhajan.

In response to persistent inquiries concerning his lack of response, Sreesanth stated that his silence has drawn criticism from Malayali supporters in particular.

“Many Malayalis have asked me why I didn’t hit back despite showing so much aggression. Some even said I should have hit him down to ground. If I had, I would have faced a lifetime ban. Kerala didn’t have that much power back then. I was the only one playing from Kerala,” he said.

The former pacer added that taking revenge would have put the careers of future Kerala cricketers aspiring to represent India at risk.

“Sanju (Sanju Samson) shouldn’t feel anything. Sachin Baby and Nidheesh (M. D. Nidheesh) shouldn’t feel anything. Because I didn’t hit back, a few people were spared. Don’t think I’m saying this out of superiority. That’s my reason. They’ve mentioned it in many stories. When we are powerful, we should use it to help others. My father always says, when we have power, we should help others, not show off in front of those more powerful," he added.

Harbhajan was seen summoning Sreesanth over before slapping him in the leaked footage. Irfan Pathan and Mahela Jayawardene, two senior players, swiftly stepped in to deescalate the tension.