Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has taken on a new innings off the field—this time as a passionate advocate for the rise of New Chandigarh as a viable venue for major cricket events. According to sources close to the matter, Harbhajan has played a crucial behind-the-scenes role in pushing the case for New Chandigarh, lobbying hard with officials and cricketing bodies to recognize the city’s readiness in both infrastructure and public enthusiasm.
“Harbhajan pushed hard for it. He convinced key decision-makers that New Chandigarh is ready, both in terms of facilities and audience enthusiasm,” a source familiar with the developments confirmed. The off-spinner-turned-politician has reportedly been working closely with local authorities and cricket administrators to put New Chandigarh on the cricketing map, not just as a backup venue but as a serious contender for hosting domestic and even international matches.
Over the past few years, New Chandigarh has emerged as one of the fastest-growing urban centers in North India. With modern infrastructure, excellent connectivity, and a budding sports culture, the city presents a compelling case for the expansion of cricket beyond the traditional metropolitan hubs. The facilities being developed—particularly the upcoming international-standard cricket stadium—are central to Harbhajan’s pitch.
What makes Harbhajan’s advocacy more significant is the credibility and influence he brings as a cricketing legend. His association with Indian cricket spans over two decades, with over 700 international wickets and numerous match-winning performances. His opinion still holds considerable weight among administrators, fans, and current players alike. Sources suggest that he used this influence to open doors and gain meetings with officials who might otherwise have been skeptical about promoting a new venue.
Beyond infrastructure, Harbhajan is also banking on the region’s passion for cricket. Punjab has always been a hotbed of cricketing talent, and cities like Mohali, Ludhiana, and Amritsar have hosted packed stadiums whenever cricket comes to town. New Chandigarh, despite being a relatively new urban setup, already boasts a strong fan base eager to see live cricket action. According to local surveys, there is considerable interest from residents and sports clubs to engage in large-scale cricketing events.
The potential economic impact of cricket in the region is also being cited as a factor in the push. A successful cricket match brings with it tourism, business for local vendors, hospitality boosts, and enhanced visibility for the city. Harbhajan’s argument reportedly included these points, underscoring how New Chandigarh could benefit both in terms of sports development and broader economic upliftment.
While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not made an official statement about any upcoming matches being allotted to New Chandigarh, insiders believe the groundwork laid by Harbhajan is already generating positive momentum. His involvement has brought serious attention to the city’s cricketing aspirations and might be the catalyst required to accelerate approvals.
If New Chandigarh does get the green light in the coming months, it will mark a significant step in cricket’s ongoing decentralization in India. Thanks to voices like Harbhajan Singh, the future of Indian cricket could soon include new cities, fresh crowds, and broader reach—all while honoring the game’s deep roots in the heartlands.
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