In 2009, Harmeet Singh, a 17-year-old left-arm spinner, made his first-class debut for Mumbai in a Ranji Trophy Super League game against Himachal Pradesh at the Bandra Kurla Complex ground. Harmeet recalls a significant moment from his debut match, vividly remembering his first spell. Ajit Agarkar, a senior player known for his tough approach to cricket, was fielding at mid-on. Harmeet had already taken two wickets and was in the middle of a promising spell when he dropped a delivery short and was hit for four. Agarkar warned him to fetch the ball himself if it happened again. True to his word, after Harmeet dropped another short ball, Agarkar told him to retrieve it. Embarrassingly, Harmeet started running after the ball but was saved by Rohit Sharma, who ran from his fielding position to get it for him.
Rohit Sharma and Harmeet Singh share a history from their school days, both coached by Dinesh Lad at Swami Vivekanand School in Borivali. The two cricketers significantly contributed to putting their school on the cricket map. Rohit became the first student from the school to play for India, and Harmeet helped the school win the prestigious Giles and Harris Shield inter-school tournaments for the first time. Harmeet’s achievements in these tournaments led to his selection in various Mumbai age-group teams, eventually captaining the Mumbai U-16 and U-19 teams and leading the West Zone U-19 team. In his debut Ranji Trophy match, Harmeet took seven wickets, playing a crucial role in Mumbai’s victory despite conceding the first innings lead. His talent was further recognized when he was part of India’s U-19 World Cup-winning team in 2012.
Challenges and Controversies
Despite his early promise, Harmeet’s career took a different turn at the senior level. He faced several challenges, many of which were beyond his control. His name was unfairly dragged into the 2013 spot-fixing controversy involving the Rajasthan Royals, and he also faced an unfortunate incident where he drove his car into Andheri station after misreading a traffic sign. These controversies and a lack of opportunities at the senior level in Mumbai cricket hindered his progress.
Move to USA and New Beginnings
In 2020, Harmeet moved to the USA, where he found a new lease on his cricketing career. Playing in the T20 World Cup for the USA, he saw it as an opportunity to catch up with old friends and teammates, including Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and others. Harmeet’s move to the USA allowed him to put past controversies behind and receive the appreciation he longed for as an athlete. His performances in Major League Cricket, including playing in the final for Seattle Orcas, co-owned by Delhi Capitals, showcased his talent on a larger stage.
Harmeet’s journey from Mumbai to the USA highlights his resilience and determination to succeed despite the hurdles. Facing India in New York, Harmeet viewed it as another significant milestone in his career, relishing the chance to bowl against top players like Suryakumar Yadav, with whom he had shared many competitive and friendly encounters in the past.
Harmeet Singh’s cricketing journey is a tale of early promise, unforeseen challenges, and eventual redemption in the USA. From his memorable debut and the support of teammates like Rohit Sharma to overcoming controversies and finding new opportunities abroad, Harmeet’s story is a testament to perseverance and passion for the game.