Unseen video of Harbhajan Singh slapping Sreesanth out; Lalit Modi's clip goes viral

It was only reported at the time. One of the biggest controversies in the history of the Indian Premier League – Harbhajan Singh slapping S Sreesanth on the field following a game between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings – had no public evidence, as the Indian cricket board and broadcasters archived the incident, ensuring it remained inaccessible.

Eighteen years later, former IPL commissioner Lalit Modi has shared the clip of Harbhajan slapping Sreesanth. In the footage, released during a podcast with former Australian cricketer Michael Clarke, Harbhajan can be seen striking Sreesanth with the back of his hand as players from Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings head out for the customary handshake.

The moment was not shown on the live broadcast, as the official broadcasters cut to advertisements just before it occurred. When coverage resumed, Sreesanth was visibly in tears, while the rest of the players looked on in shock.

More to follow.