New Delhi: Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has launched a strong criticism of Greg Chappell’s tenure as India’s head coach, accusing the Australian of creating divisions within the dressing room and damaging the team’s unity during a difficult period in Indian cricket.
Speaking on the Prakhar Gupta Podcast, Harbhajan described Chappell’s time in charge as one of the darkest chapters in the team’s history. He also questioned the decision to appoint the former Australian batter as head coach in June 2005.
Chappell took charge after India finished runners up at the 2003 ODI World Cup, losing the final to Australia. His appointment initially generated considerable excitement, with expectations that his experience would help the team featuring established stars such as Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid.
However, his tenure became increasingly controversial amid reports of disagreements within the team and tensions involving senior players.
Harbhajan alleged that Chappell adopted a divide and rule approach, creating conflicts among teammates who had previously shared a strong bond. He recalled that members of the squad that reached the 2003 World Cup final eventually stopped communicating with one another.
According to Harbhajan, the internal divisions weakened a team that had previously demonstrated considerable unity and the ability to challenge Australia’s dominance in international cricket.
The former spinner also suggested that the divisions may have affected India’s performances on the field. He argued that a united Indian side was capable of competing consistently against Australia but believed the team’s internal problems undermined that strength.
Harbhajan further linked the turbulent period to India’s disappointing campaign at the 2007 ODI World Cup, where the team suffered an unexpected group stage exit.
India’s defeat to Bangladesh proved particularly damaging, leaving the team unable to progress to the next stage despite entering the tournament with high expectations.
Chappell’s tenure remains a contentious chapter in Indian cricket history, with questions surrounding team management, player relationships and leadership continuing to attract attention. Harbhajan’s latest remarks have once again brought those controversies into focus.