Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Rahul Dravid pay tributes to Harbhajan Singh

New Delhi, Dec 24: Legendary Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid joined the cricketing fraternity in raising a toast to veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh as he called time on his career on Friday (December 24). Congratulating the off-spinner on an illustrious career, Tendulkar described the Turbanator's journey as a fulfilling one.

Harbhajan, who last played for India in March 2016 in a T20 against UAE, had been contemplating retirement on a highly successful international career for quite some time now.

During his 23-year stint in international cricket, he won two World Cups -- the inaugural ICC World T20 in 2007 and then the ODI World Cup in 2011. He took 417 wickets in 103 Tests, 269 wickets in 236 ODIs and 25 scalps in 28 T20Is.

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Recalling the innumerable memorable moments he shared with Harbhajan, batting icon Tendulkar wished the 41-year-old good luck for his "doosra phase."

"What a wonderful & fulfilling career, Bhajji! I first met you at India nets in '95 - over the years, we've been part of wonderful memories. "You have been a great team man, playing with all your heart. Both on the field and off it - it is always fun to have you as part of any team. I cannot forget all those moments of laughter," Tendulkar wrote.

Harbhajan Singh retires: Cricket fraternity lauds Turbanator's contribution to the game

"You have done your best for India in your long career, we are all very proud of you. Wishing you happiness and success in the 'doosra' phase of your career," he added.

India head coach Rahul Dravid said that the hallmark of Harbhajan's career has been his fighting qualities. "Harbhajan had many ups and downs in his career but he has always come out fighting. Great competitor and a great team man, someone you wanted to go to battle with. Obviously, one of those great performers for India," Dravid told bcci.tv.

A legend and one of the finest to have ever played the game! 🙌#TeamIndia congratulate @harbhajan_singh on a glorious career 👏👏@imVkohli | @cheteshwar1 pic.twitter.com/iefNrA4r2M

— BCCI (@BCCI) December 24, 2021

"To be a great sort of partner along with Anil Kumble, part of so many of our great wins during that period, its pleasure and privilege to play alongside him. The highlight of Bhajji's career was 32 wickets and just to see the way he came back after being dropped from the team, the way he carried that attack in absence of Anil Kumble was phenomenal," the 'Wall' said.

Indian captain Virat Kohli said that "711 international wickets is no mean feat and you can be proud of your achievement. It's a blessing to play for the country but to play for that long is a different thing altogether," India captain Virat Kohli said.

"I cherish all those moments with you and how you backed me to the hilt when I came into the Indian team. We share a great friendship off the field," Kohli added.

India opener Shikhar Dhawan tweeted, "Congratulations on a wonderful career Pajhi Your contribution to cricket has been immense and it was a pleasure to play alongside you. Enjoyed our great moments together on and off the field. Wishing you luck for your next innings @harbhajan_singh".