Ravi Shastri came to Isa Guha's support and lauded her for on-air apology after making a controversial remark on Jasprit Bumrah during the third Test between India and Australia at Gabba. Isa had used the word 'Primate' while praising Jasprit Bumrah's outstanding bowling performance in the first innings.
Bumrah yet again dazzled with his stunning bowling display, picking six wickets, including the crucial wicket of Travis Head and Steve Smith. While discussing Bumrah's heroics with Brett Lee on Fox Sports, Isa referred to him as the 'MVP - Most Valuable Primate'.
However, Isa's choice of words drew a lot of flak from fans on social media. After being criticised for her racially-sensitive comment, she issued a public apology on the third day of the Test. She acknowledged the potential misinterpretation of her words, stating:
"Yesterday in commentary, I used a word that can be interpreted in a number of different ways."
“I set myself really high standards when it comes to empathy and respect of others and 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 as well. I’m an advocate for equality and someone who has spent their career thinking about inclusion and understanding in the game. I’m trying to frame the enormity of his achievements and I’ve chosen the wrong word, and for that I am deeply sorry,” she added.
Meanwhile, former India's head coach and renowned commentator Ravi Shastri expressed his full support for Isa Guha following her on-air apology. Shastri said that the matter should now be considered resolved after the sincere apology.
"Brave woman, to apologise on live television takes some steel. You heard it from the horse's mouth so as far as I am concerned, game's over. People are entitled to make mistakes, we are all human. In the heat of the moment, sometimes when you have the mic in your hand, things can happen. Let's move on,” Shastri, who was commentating alongside Guha, said.
Talking about the match, with rain curtailing play on Day 3 leaving India reeling at 51/4 in reply to Australia's formidable 445. Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul now have the onus to steady India's bat on Day 4 after top-order collapse.
