India’s Jasprit Bumrah bowls a delivery during play on day two of the third cricket test between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane, Australia. (AP)
Isa Guha has issued an apology after she called Jasprit Bumrah a “primate” on Day 2 of the third Test at the Gabba.
“Well, he’s the MVP, isn’t he? Most valuable primate, Jasprit Bumrah. ” Guha had said while doing commentary for Fox Cricket on hr second day after Bumrah took a fifer.
“He is the one that’s going to do all the talking for India, and why so much focus was on him in the buildup to this Test match, and whether he would be fit.”
The use of the word ‘primate’ stand out particularly given the historical tension between the two cricket teams since the days of the 2008 Monkeygate scandal.
However, Guha, a former England cricketer, issued an on-air apology before the start of play on the third day.
“Yesterday in commentary I used a word that can be interpreted in a number of different ways,” she said.
“Firstly, I’d like to apologise for any offence caused. I set myself really high standards when it comes to empathy and respect for 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 am an advocate for equality and someone who has spent their career thinking about inclusion and understanding in the game. I am trying to frame the enormity of his achievements and I have 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. I hope this doesn’t overshadow what has been a great Test match so far and I look forward to seeing how it progresses. Once again, I am really, really sorry.”
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