It sparked the main controversy on the second day of the third Test when the former member of England women’s cricket, Isa Guha, referred to India’s premier fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, as a “primate,” while commentating. A wave of anger stirred in the fans on social media after this comment. However, an apologetic Guha clarified ahead of Day 3’s play that she did so to mean the highest praise possible for the elite pacer.
During commentary, Guha had termed Bumrah the “MVP – Most Valuable Primate,” underlining his importance in the game and the buzz regarding his fitness ahead of the Test. She said, “He is the one that’s going to do all the talking for India, and that’s why there was so much focus on him in the lead-up to this match. He needs some support, though.”
On Monday morning, Guha took to Fox Cricket’s broadcast to address the issue: “Yesterday in commentary, I used a word that can be interpreted in a number of different ways. I’d like to apologize for any offense caused. I set myself really high standards when it comes to empathy and respect for others.”
She further explained, “If you listen to the full transcript, I only meant the highest praise for one of India’s greatest players, someone I admire greatly. I am all for equality and have spent my career thinking about inclusion and understanding in the game.”
Guha has since acknowledged that her choice of words was wrong. “I was trying to frame the enormity of his achievement and I’ve chosen the wrong word. For that, I am deeply sorry. As someone of South Asian heritage, I hope people recognize there was no malice intended, and I hope this hasn’t overshadowed what has been a great Test match so far.”
Former head coach of Team India, Ravi Shastri, also commented on the apology of Guha as he called her a “brave woman” for addressing the situation live. “It takes a lot of courage to apologize on air. You heard it from the horse’s mouth, so as far as I’m concerned, the game’s over. People are entitled to make mistakes; we’re all human. In the heat of the moment, things can happen when you have the mic in your hand. Let’s move on,” Shastri said.
