Harbhajan Singh faces backlash for comparing Jofra Archer to ‘kaali taxi’ during IPL commentary

Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh found himself at the center of controversy after making racist remarks about English pacer Jofra Archer during commentary in an IPL 2025 match between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals on Sunday.

Sunrisers Hyderabad’s batsmen dominated the Rajasthan Royals' bowling attack, amassing 286 runs for 6 wickets in the allotted 20 overs, the second-highest total in IPL history.

During the match, Jofra Archer bowled the most expensive spell in IPL history, conceding 76 runs in 4 overs without taking a wicket.

Commenting on Archer’s performance, Harbhajan made a controversial remark, comparing Archer’s bowling speed to the speed of a black taxi in London:

"London mein kaali taxi ka meter tez bhaagta hai, aur yahan 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.]"

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His remarks sparked outrage, with many condemning them as racist. Social media users criticised Singh, with some even calling for a ban on him.

The incident took place during the 18th over, when Sunrisers Hyderabad batter Heinrich Klaasen hit back-to-back boundaries off Archer’s second and third deliveries.

As of now, Harbhajan Singh has not issued any statement regarding the controversy.