Former England women’s team cricketer Isa Guha called Bumrah a “primate” when discussing his bowling ability during the second day of play in the third Test match between Australia and India in Brisbane, sparking a major controversy. Fans were incensed by Guha’s comment on social media. However, Guha apologised for her remark prior to the start of play on Day 3, making it clear that she meant it merely as a compliment to the great Indian pacer.
Guha had called Bumrah “MVP – Most Valuable Primate”. Furthermore, she said, “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.”
On Monday morning, Guha said on Fox Cricket’s broadcast, “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,” she added.
“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 Guha.
In response to Guha’s apology, former Team India head coach Ravi Shastri also referred to her as a “brave woman” for choosing to issue an apology live on television.
“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,” said Shastri.
