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Ganguly backs Harbhajan

11/01/2008

India batsman Sourav Ganguly thinks team-mate Harbhajan Singh did not racially abuse Australian all-rounder Andrew Symonds.

The series between India and Australia has been completely overshadowed by allegations made by the Australian team that Harbhajan made a racist comment towards Symonds.

India threatened to quit the tour after Harbhajan was banned for three matches, but he will be allowed to play in the third Test in Perth on Wednesday January 14th after he appealed the decision to ban him.

"I really doubt he said what he is meant to have," Ganguly said. "Under pressure a lot of things come out and Australia also do it, but I think Harbhajan is just a competitor on the field.

"He bowled well with not much luck in Sydney and batted brilliantly. He will give 100 per cent on the field every time.

"I don't think it [personal abuse] has any role in cricket. Sometimes it does happen in the heat of the moment, everyone is playing for their place and their reputation is at stake," added the former India captain.

The fallout from the Test in Sydney also saw Australian bowler Brad Hogg charged with making offensive remarks to India captain Anil Kumble and Mahendra Singh Dhoni.

And experienced umpire Steve Bucknor was dropped from the Perth Test after the Indians complained of his performance at Sydney.