Lalit Modi Responds to Outrage Over IPL 2008 Slapgate Footage Release

Background of the IPL 2008 Slapgate Incident

Lalit Modi, the former chairman and commissioner of the Indian Premier League (IPL), has addressed the backlash from Bhuvneshwari, the wife of ex-Indian cricketer S Sreesanth, regarding the release of footage from the notorious IPL 2008 Slapgate incident involving Harbhajan Singh. This incident, which occurred during the inaugural season of the IPL, became a major controversy when Harbhajan slapped Sreesanth, who was visibly upset after a match between Kings XI Punjab and Mumbai Indians in Mohali.

Release of the Footage After Years

For nearly two decades, the footage of this incident remained under wraps following an investigation led by Sudhir Nanavati, who reviewed the video and submitted his findings to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Consequently, the BCCI and IPL Committee suspended Harbhajan for the remainder of that season. Recently, 17 years after the incident, Lalit Modi made the footage public, showcasing the confrontation between Harbhajan and Sreesanth, which was featured on Michael Clarke's podcast 'Beyond 23'. The video quickly gained traction on social media as fans revisited this infamous moment in IPL history.

Bhuvneshwari Sreesanth's Reaction

Bhuvneshwari Sreesanth expressed her discontent through several Instagram stories, condemning the actions of Lalit Modi and Michael Clarke for releasing the video. She described their decision as 'inhumane and heartless', emphasizing that both her husband and Harbhajan had moved on from the incident. Sreesanth criticized Modi and Clarke, pointing out that he had worked hard to rebuild his life and dignity after the slapgate incident, only for the painful memories to resurface for public scrutiny.

Reconciliation Between Harbhajan and Sreesanth

Despite the past, Harbhajan Singh and S Sreesanth have reconciled. In a recent interview, Sreesanth referred to Harbhajan as his 'elder brother', stating that the entire controversy was a misunderstanding that had been exaggerated. Harbhajan has also expressed regret over the incident, acknowledging it as a mistake he wishes to erase from his life.

Lalit Modi's Defense

In light of the criticism from Bhuvneshwari, Lalit Modi defended his actions, claiming he merely revealed the truth to the public. He stated that Sreesanth was indeed a victim of the incident and that sharing the footage was simply a way to present what actually transpired on the field. Modi remarked, 'I don’t know why she is getting angry. I was asked a question, and I shared the truth. I can’t do anything about that. I am known to speak the truth.' He reiterated that Sreesanth was the victim, and he responded to the inquiry as it arose.

Impact of the Slapgate Incident

The IPL 2008 slapgate incident had significant repercussions in Indian cricket, causing widespread outrage and damaging the league's reputation. Although Harbhajan Singh and Sreesanth have publicly reconciled, the incident left a lasting impact on their relationship.