Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has hit back at Michael Vaughan’s accusations that the International Cricket Council (ICC) favoured India during the T20 World Cup 2024. Vaughan had claimed that India received preferential treatment by having their semi-final match scheduled in Guyana instead of Trinidad.
Vaughan’s Accusations
Michael Vaughan took to X (formerly Twitter) to voice his concerns before the first semi-final between Afghanistan and South Africa, stating, “Surely this Semi should have been the Guyana one .. but because the whole event is geared towards India it’s so unfair on others.”
He argued that India had an advantage because they were informed in advance that they would play their semi-final in Guyana, regardless of their position in the Super 8 group.
After the match between India and England, Vaughan stated that “Guyana has been a lovely venue pick for India,” hinting at India benefitting from playing in spin-friendly conditions in Guyana.
Harbhajan Singh’s Response
Harbhajan Singh did not take kindly to Vaughan’s comments. Following India’s 68-run victory over England in the second semi-final at the Providence Stadium in Guyana, Harbhajan responded to Vaughan’s insinuations.
The former spinner did not mince his words and asked Vaughan to ‘stop being silly,’ urging him to accept the fact that England lost fair and square.
“What makes you think Guyana was a good venue for India?” Harbhajan replied. “Both teams played on the same venue. England won the toss, that was an advantage. Stop being silly. England was outplayed by India in all departments. Accept the fact and Move on.”
Despite Vaughan’s claims, Harbhajan pointed out that both teams faced the same conditions. England winning the toss was a significant advantage, but India’s comprehensive performance across all departments was the key to their victory.
Indian fans and former players rallied behind Harbhajan, supporting his stance against Vaughan’s comments. India now moves on to the T20 World Cup 2024 final against South Africa, set to be played at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on June 29, 2024.
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