Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
In an unexpected twist during the third Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 at the Gabba in Brisbane, Fox Cricket commentator Cave found herself at the center of controversy for a remark about the Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah. Guha, known for her insightful commentary and respected voice on cricket broadcasts, has since apologized profusely for her choice of words.
On the second day of the Test, while Bumrah was delivering an impressive performance with his second five-wicket haul of the series, Guha made a comment that quickly sparked a debate on the internet and among cricket fans. Describing Bumrah as the “MVP – Most Valuable Primate,” Guha’s attempt to highlight Bumrah’s importance to the Indian team was criticized for potential racial insensitivity.
The term “primate”, while technically correct in a biological context, carries historical connotations particularly sensitive in cricket, harkening back to the infamous ‘Monkeygate’ scandal involving India’s Harbhajan Singh and Australia Andrew Symonds in 2008.
Guha apologizes
Realizing the unintended effect of her words, Guha addressed the issue head-on at the start of the third day’s broadcast. She stressed that her intention was to praise Bumrah’s exceptional performance and leadership, admitting that she had chosen the wrong word to express her admiration.
“Yesterday in my comment I used a word that can be interpreted in many different ways. First, I want to apologize for any offense. I set very high standards for myself when it comes to empathy and respect for others,” Guha stated during a live broadcast on Fox Cricket.
Emphasizing her commitment to empathy, respect and inclusiveness, Guha expressed regret for any unintentional offense. Highlighting her advocacy of equality and understanding within cricket, she clarified that her South Asian heritage and commitment to diversity should reflect her true intentions, with no malice behind her comment.
“If you listen to the entire transcript, I meant only the highest praise for one of India’s greatest players. And someone I really admire. I am an advocate for equality and someone who has spent my career thinking about inclusion and understanding in the game.” she added, clarifying her stance on diversity and respect within cricket.
Also WATCH: Virat Kohli departs once again, on the edge of an off-stump delivery as Josh Hazlewood celebrates – AUS vs IND, 3rd Test
Ravi Shastri praises Guha for his bravery
Former India chief selector Shastri praised Guha for her courage in apologizing on live television, describing her as a “brave woman” for addressing the issue head on. He acknowledged that mistakes can happen, especially in the heat of the moment during live commentary, and stressed the importance of moving on, stating that Guha’s sincere apology should settle the matter.
“Brave woman, it takes some steel to apologize on live television. You heard it from the horse’s mouth, so as far as I’m concerned, it’s game over. People have the right to make mistakes, we are all human. In the heat of the moment, sometimes when you have a microphone in your hand, things can happen. Let’s move on,” Shastri said.
