Mon Dec 16 03:21:24 UTC 2024: ## Ex-England Cricketer Isa Guha Apologizes for ‘Primate’ Remark About Jasprit Bumrah
**Brisbane, Australia** – Former England fast bowler Isa Guha issued an on-air apology during Fox Cricket’s coverage of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after facing backlash for a controversial comment about Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah.
During commentary on the second day of the Gabba Test, Guha, while praising Bumrah, referred to him as “MVP – Most Valuable Primate,” a remark that sparked outrage on social media. Many users drew parallels to the 2008 “Monkeygate” incident between Harbhajan Singh and Andrew Symonds.
Guha’s apology, delivered before the start of play on the third day, acknowledged the potentially offensive nature of her words. “Yesterday in commentary, I used a word that can be interpreted in many different ways,” she stated. “I sincerely apologize for any offense caused. I hold myself to a very high standard in terms of empathy and respect for others. If you listen to the full transcript, my intention was to lavish praise on one of India’s greatest players, a player I admire greatly. I am an advocate for equality and someone who has spent their entire career thinking about inclusion and understanding in the game.”
She further expressed regret for the comment, emphasizing her lack of intention to cause hurt and highlighting her South Asian heritage. Guha stressed her aim was to convey Bumrah’s exceptional talent, but acknowledged an unfortunate choice of words.
Former Team India coach Ravi Shastri supported Guha, praising her courage in apologizing live on television. He emphasized that everyone makes mistakes and that the incident should be put behind. The incident, however, highlights the ongoing sensitivity surrounding racially charged language in sports commentary.
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