Harbhajan Singh Criticised for Comparing Archer to ‘Black Taxi’

India’s legendary spinner Harbhajan Singh was criticised for racist comments after controversially comparing England fast bowler Jofra Archer to a “black taxi” during commentary for the IPL 2025 match between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). His statement came on Sunday during the 18th over of the first innings when Archer was bowling to SRH batters Ishan Kishan and Heinrich Klaasen.

As Klaasen hit consecutive boundaries against Archer, Harbhajan Singh criticised Archer on air, “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.)” His remark left fans furious, leading to widespread criticism on social media. Many demanded his immediate suspension from the IPL 2025 commentary panel.

Meanwhile, Jofra Archer had a difficult outing in his first IPL 2025 match, conceding 76 runs without taking a wicket. His bowling figures set a new unwanted record, becoming the most expensive spell in IPL history, surpassing Mohit Sharma’s 0/73 for Gujarat Titans against Delhi Capitals last year.

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On the other hand, Sunrisers Hyderabad had a record-breaking day, registering their fourth 250-plus total in T20 cricket, the most ever by any team, overtaking India and Surrey. They fell just two runs short of breaking their own IPL record for the highest total, scoring 286/6 against Rajasthan. Their highest total remains 287/3 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2024.

Ishan Kishan played a crucial role for SRH, smashing his maiden IPL century in just 45 balls. His explosive knock helped Sunrisers defeat Rajasthan Royals by 44 runs, getting their IPL 2025 campaign off to a winning start.

Despite SRH’s dominant performance, Harbhajan’s controversial remark has taken centre stage, with cricket fans and analysts debating the implications of his words.