Isa Guha, a former England cricketer and broadcaster, came under fire during the third Test match between India and Australia for calling Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah a “primate.” The comment was made during Fox Cricket commentary after Brett Lee praised Bumrah’s outstanding bowling performance on the second day.
View the live score, match updates, and online scorecard for India vs. Australia’s third test day three here.
Guha said
“Well, he’s the MVP, isn’t he? Most valuable primate, Jasprit Bumrah,”, attempting to highlight Bumrah’s dominance on the field.
The comment, however, sparked outrage on social media, with fans condemning the racial undertone of the phrase. The 39-year-old Guha, who has been part of Fox Sports’ broadcast team for years, was compelled to issue a formal apology.
Guha apologizes and says: ‘Deeply sorry for the wrong word’
Day three began with Guha addressing the matter live on air and expressing his sincere regret.
“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. If you listen to the full transcript, I only meant the highest praise for one of India’s greatest players—someone I admire greatly.”
Indian-born Guha reaffirmed that her statements were not intended to be offensive and clarified that she intended to honor Bumrah’s accomplishment.
“I was trying to frame the enormity of his achievement and I’ve chosen the wrong word. For that, I am deeply sorry,” she added. “I hope people recognize there was no other intention or malice there.”
Peer support: Shastri and Gilchrist’s response
Sitting next to Guha after she apologized, former India head coach Ravi Shastri praised her bravery for speaking candidly about the matter.
Shastri remarked and said
“Brave woman. To apologize on live television takes some steel. You heard it from the horse’s mouth, so as far as I am concerned, the game’s over,”.
Also added
“People are entitled to make mistakes. We are all human. In the heat of the moment, when you have the mic in your hand, things can happen. Let’s move on,”
