Cricket discussions often turn intense in India, especially when legends speak their minds. A recent comment by former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar about One Day Internationals being an “easy format” created a big stir online. Many fans felt the remark indirectly questioned Virat Kohli’s dominance in ODIs. Soon after, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh stepped in with a strong and sensible response that won widespread support.
The exchange quickly went viral, with fans praising Harbhajan for defending not just Virat Kohli, but the value of ODI cricket itself.
What Sanjay Manjrekar Said That Started The Debate
Sanjay Manjrekar recently shared his opinion that ODI cricket is easier for top-order batters compared to Test matches. He explained that in ODIs, field restrictions, fewer attacking fielders, and different bowling strategies make scoring runs less challenging.
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Though he did not directly name Virat Kohli, many cricket followers connected the statement to Kohli’s strong performances in ODIs and his decision to step away from Tests earlier. This led to heated discussions on social media, with fans divided over whether the comment was fair or disrespectful.
Why Fans Felt Virat Kohli Was Targeted
Virat Kohli is currently one of the most consistent performers in ODI cricket. Even after retiring from T20Is and later Tests, he has continued to score crucial runs for India in the 50-over format.
Because of his success, many fans felt that calling ODIs “easy” indirectly reduces Kohli’s hard-earned achievements. Supporters argued that scoring runs consistently against top international teams is never simple, regardless of the format.
Harbhajan Singh Comes Out In Support Of Virat Kohli
Harbhajan Singh did not hold back while responding to the debate. He clearly stated that if scoring runs was truly easy, every player would be successful. According to him, performing at the highest level needs discipline, mental strength, and years of hard work.
Harbhajan urged fans and experts to stop pulling down great players with format comparisons. Instead, he asked everyone to enjoy watching players perform and win matches for the country.
“Greatness Is Not About Format,” Says Harbhajan
Harbhajan made it clear that a player’s legacy should not be judged by how many formats they play. He said that Virat Kohli has always been a match-winner for India, no matter the format.
He also added that different players contribute in different ways, and all formats have their own challenges. According to him, cricket should be about celebrating performances, not running down players with unnecessary debates.
Why ODI Cricket Is Still Highly Competitive
Many experts believe that ODI cricket is far from easy. Bowlers have become smarter, pitches are unpredictable, and teams study batters in great detail. Scoring consistently still requires fitness, focus, and adaptability.
Harbhajan’s comments highlighted this reality and reminded fans that modern cricket is tough in every format.
Ongoing India Matches Make The Debate More Relevant
India’s recent ODI performances have again shown how competitive the format remains. Close matches, pressure situations, and individual brilliance continue to define one-day cricket.
Virat Kohli’s form and India’s fight on the field support Harbhajan’s point that good performances deserve appreciation rather than criticism.
Conclusion
Harbhajan Singh’s response brought balance and maturity to an otherwise heated debate. Instead of attacking individuals, he focused on respecting performances and appreciating cricketing excellence. His words reminded fans that greatness cannot be measured by formats alone.
Virat Kohli’s journey and success continue to inspire millions, and moments like these prove why experienced voices like Harbhajan’s still matter in Indian cricket discussions.
FAQs
Why did Sanjay Manjrekar say ODIs are easy?
He believes ODI cricket offers conditions that favour top-order batters, such as fewer attacking fielders and different bowling approaches.
Did Sanjay Manjrekar directly target Virat Kohli?
No, he did not name Kohli directly, but many fans felt the comment was linked to him.
What was Harbhajan Singh’s main point?
Harbhajan said scoring runs is never easy and that great players should be enjoyed, not judged by formats.
Is ODI cricket really easier than Tests?
Each format has its own challenges. ODIs require consistency, fitness, and smart decision-making under pressure.
Why did this debate go viral?
Because it involved well-known former cricketers and one of India’s biggest cricket stars, Virat Kohli.