Former India cricketer Harbhajan Singh, now a commentator for IPL 2025, has landed in hot water after making a controversial remark about English pacer Jofra Archer during the Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Rajasthan Royals match on Sunday. Harbhajan’s on-air comment, which referenced London’s black taxis while discussing Archer’s expensive bowling spell, ignited a backlash on social media, with fans demanding his removal from the commentary panel.
The incident occurred in the 18th over of the first innings, as Archer was being taken apart by SRH batters Ishan Kishan and Heinrich Klaasen. Following consecutive boundaries off Archer’s bowling, Harbhajan quipped, “London me kaali taxi ka meter tez bhaagta hai, aur yaha pe Archer sahab ka meter bhi tez bhaaga hai” (Like the meter of London’s black taxis, Archer’s meter has also been on the higher side).
The comment did not sit well with fans, many of whom perceived it as insensitive and racially charged. Given that Harbhajan himself has faced racism during his playing career, the remark came as a shock to many. Social media quickly erupted with calls for an apology and demands for his suspension from the IPL commentary team.
Despite the growing backlash, Harbhajan has yet to address the controversy or offer any clarification.
As for Archer, his first IPL 2025 appearance was forgettable. The England pacer recorded the most expensive bowling figures in IPL history, conceding 76 runs without taking a wicket—surpassing Mohit Sharma’s 0/73 for Gujarat Titans in 2024. His struggle on the field only added to the discussion, as Harbhajan’s ill-timed remark became the focal point of the match’s post-game discourse.