Harbhajan Singh Unveils the Truth Behind His NCA Expulsion

In a recent revelation, Harbhajan Singh, former Indian spinner and current Rajya Sabha MP, shared the story behind his 2000 expulsion from the National Cricket Academy. He explained how his protests over inadequate food led to his removal, emphasizing that he was advocating for players' rights. Despite the controversy, Harbhajan went on to become one of India's leading spinners, contributing significantly to the national team's successes. His insights shed light on the challenges faced by young athletes and the importance of standing up for their rights.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 11, 2026, 18:04 IST

Harbhajan Singh's NCA Controversy

Harbhajan Singh, a former Indian spinner and current Rajya Sabha MP, has shed light on the circumstances surrounding his expulsion from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru back in 2000. This incident sparked significant discussions regarding his behavior and alleged indiscipline during the academy's formative years.

The NCA was inaugurated in 2000 as a premier training ground for aspiring cricketers, and Harbhajan was among the first group of trainees. However, his time at the academy was cut short due to a controversy involving a torn diet chart and his vocal objections to the quality of food provided.

The situation escalated when a young Harbhajan expressed his dissatisfaction with the meals served to the trainees, ultimately leading him to tear the diet chart after his complaints went unaddressed.

Harbhajan's Perspective on the Incident

Now, 26 years later, Harbhajan has finally shared his side of the story. In a conversation on 'cricketnextofficial', he explained that his actions were motivated by a desire to advocate for the players' basic rights when their concerns about inadequate meals were ignored.

He emphasized that the diet chart did not accurately represent the food being served, and tearing it was his way of voicing frustration over the unheeded complaints. "They removed me from there. It was not my mistake, I say this openly even today. It was our right. The food was not good there," Harbhajan stated.

He elaborated, "Back then, we were taught a lot, and a diet chart was displayed. However, the food did not match the chart. Despite numerous complaints, the situation did not improve, leading me to tear the chart. This was my only mistake: that I tore the chart."

Impact of Harbhajan's Protest

Harbhajan Singh, who made his Test debut for India against Australia in Bengaluru in 1998, found himself embroiled in controversy during his time at the NCA. Despite his prior international experience, this incident led to his removal from the academy.

Reflecting on his expulsion, Harbhajan claimed that his protest ultimately resulted in a revised diet plan at the NCA. He noted, "Maybe until someone takes a stand, nothing changes. I was advocating for the players' rights. If I hadn't spoken up, the same diet plan would still be in place today."

He added, "The plan changed, and while I was removed, it was not my fault. Some individuals within the BCCI were uncomfortable with someone willing to question them."

Harbhajan's Legacy

Despite facing controversies throughout his career, Harbhajan Singh established himself as one of India's premier spinners, amassing 707 wickets at an average of 32.59 and an economy rate of 3.32 across 365 international matches. He was a key member of the Indian team that clinched the T20 World Cup in 2007 and the ODI World Cup in 2011.

Social Media Reaction

Harbhajan Singh said: "I was removed from NCA, and it wasn’t my mistake. I say this openly even now. The food wasn’t good there and back in the day. The rules were such that the cricketers were taught a lot. A chart was put up for the diet, but we weren’t getting what was..."

— Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952) August 11, 2026