England cricketer-turned-commentator Isa Guha has apologised for calling Jasprit Bumrah 'primate' while praising him in the commentary box on Day 2 of the third Test at The Gabba, Brisbane. As Bumrah gave India some relief by taking Steve Smith and Travis Head's wicket after their 241-run partnership for the fourth wicket, Guha called the pace-bowling spearhead an MVP in addition to the racist comment for which she has been facing flak on social media.
"The MVP - Most Valuable Primate". said Guha. "He is the one that’s going to do all the talking for India and why so much focus was on him in the build up to this Test match and whether he would be fit. He needs some support though.”
A day after Guha clarified that she did not want to offend anyone and regrets the use of the word. She intended to praise Bumrah but instead it led to controversy.
Guha's full statement
"Yesterday in commentary I used a word that can be interpreted in a number of different ways. I'd like to apologise for any offence caused. I set myself really high standards when it comes to empathy and respect of others."
"If you listen to the full transcript I only meant the highest praise for one of India's greatest players. And someone that I admire greatly. I'm an advocate for equality and someone who has spent their career thinking about inclusion and understanding in the game.
"I was trying to frame the enormity of his achievement and I've chosen the wrong word. And for that I am deeply sorry. As someone who is also of south Asian heritage I hope people would recognise there was no other intention or malice there, and I hope this hasn't overshadowed what has been a great Test match so far - and I look forward to seeing how it progresses," said the English cricketer who has played 8 Tests, 83 ODIs and 22 T20Is.
Shastri lauds Guha, gives details from Indian camp over controversy
As Guha concluded her apology, fellow commentator and former India head coach Ravi Shastri called her 'brave' for accepting her mistake. Shastri also said that he has talked to people in the Indian side and they have not taken any offense to her comment.
