Harbhajan Singh, after an 23-year career, announced his retirement from all forms of competitive cricket. 

“All good things come to an end and today as I bid adieu to the game that has given me everything in life, I would like to thank everyone who made this 23-year-long journey beautiful and memorable. My heartfelt thank you,” the 41-year-old said in a tweet. 

Current and former players and cricket experts congratulated the Turbanator and lauded the 41-year-old for his contribution to the game. 

Bhajji last played for India in March 2016 in a T20 against UAE. He  had been contemplating bringing down the curtains on a highly successful international career for quite some time now.

During his 18-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.

Congratulating Singh, Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan said that the off-spinner’s contribution to cricket has been immense.

“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,” Dhawan tweeted.

NCA chief and former India batsman VVS Laxman also extended his he good wishes.

“Hearty congratulations to my great mate @harbhajan_singh on a remarkable career! A tremendous exponent of off-spin, a gifted batsman and a true competitor who fashioned many a wonderful Indian victory. Best wishes for the future, Bhajji, go well!” 

“@harbhajan_singh Ur gonna be the one of the best ever played cricket not just for india but in world of cricket..it’s a huge honour to know u and to have played with you b bhajjipa ….will always cherish the lovely hugs (lucky for me) before my spells ) lots of love and respect,”  former Indian pacer, S Sreeshath, who was in tears after Harbhajan had allegedly slapped him on-field during an IPL match in 2008, said. 

KL Rahul said Harbhajan Singh was a great spinner for India and youngsters in the team. “He was very supportive and welcomed us.”

Kuldeep Yadav described Singh as a legend and match winner. 

“Thank you @harbhajan_singh Paaji for your guidance and helping me with my game. You will be missed. Best wishes,” the chinaman tweeted. 

“More than a truly great player, Bhajju Pa was always a big brother for all the juniors.@harbhajan_singh would make us laugh all the time and was someone who always made the dressing room like our home. Best wishes in your new innings. #harbhajansingh,” Parthiv Patel said. 

 Mayank Agarwal tweeted, “Congratulations @harbhajan_singh for a wonderful career. I remember as a kid watching you take that hattrick against Australia in 2001. Thank you for the great memories Bhajji paa. I wish you best for the journey ahead.”

“Your contribution to Indian cricket will always be cherished, @harbhajan_singh paaji wishing you all the best for your future,” Suresh Raina’s tweet read.