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'I Am Sorry' - Isa Guha Apologises To Jasprit Bumrah For Racist 'Primate' Comment

Soumyajit Dutta

Isa Guha apologises to Jasprit Bumrah for racist remark [Source: @theroarsports/X.com]Isa Guha apologises to Jasprit Bumrah for racist remark [Source: @theroarsports/X.com]

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Former England cricketer and now commentator Isa Guha sparked controversy during the second day of the third Test match between India and Australia in Brisbane. While commentating on the match, Guha referred to Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah as the "Most Valuable Primate," drawing immediate criticism from fans.

The term 'primate' refers to species such as apes and monkeys, and Guha's comment about Bumrah was initially interpreted to be based solely on Bumrah's appearance. The term, with its racial connotations, was widely condemned on social media. Guha however, issued an apology on-air on Monday morning. 

Guha Apologises For Racist Comment 

At FoxCricket studios, Guha apologised for her remark on-air stating that the remark was intended as high praise for Jasprit Bumrah's exceptional bowling performance and not meant to be offensive.

"I used a word that can be interpreted in many different ways. So, first I would like to apologise for any offence caused. I only meant the highest praise for one of India's greatest players and someone that I admire greatly as well," Guha remarked.

Guha added that she only wanted to frame Bumrah's legendary status by calling him a 'primate' which can be interpreted as a bowler who will be remembered for the ages. However, she faltered in doing so as it was interpreted differently by the fans.

"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," added Guha.

After her apology, Ravi Shastri who was also present in the studio commended Guha for her apology on live television.

"Brave woman, to apologise on live television takes some steel. 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 remarked.

Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah has been his usual self as he scalped 6 wickets for his team and becoming the only bowler to significantly dent Australia’s confidence. He conceded 76 runs over 28 overs, maintaining an impressive economy rate of 2.71. 

In addition to Bumrah's key wickets of Steve Smith and Travis Head, Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj also made valuable contributions, helping to wrap up Australia’s innings at 445 all out at the beginning of Day 3.