In a shocking turn of events during the third Test between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane, former England cricketer Isa Guha racially abused Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah on air. Guha, who is of Indian-origin, referred to Bumrah as a “primate” live during the broadcast, igniting widespread outrage on social media and among cricket fans.
The Incident: A Disturbing On-Air Comment
On the second day of the third Test, Jasprit Bumrah displayed his immense talent with a brilliant five-wicket haul, bringing India back into the game with crucial breakthroughs. After Bumrah dismissed Australian openers Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney in quick succession, former Australian pacer Brett Lee praised the Indian vice-captain’s performance, stating, “Bumrah, today: five overs, 2/4. That’s the tone you want from the ex-skipper.”
Isa Guha, who was co-commentating with Lee, responded to his praise by saying, “Well, he’s the MVP, isn’t he? Most valuable primate, Jasprit Bumrah.” The remark, made during a live broadcast, quickly gained attention and was met with fury from fans, especially given Guha’s Indian heritage.
Why Was the Comment Harmful?
The use of the word “primate” in this context is deeply troubling. In zoology, “primate” refers to a group of mammals that includes species like lemurs, monkeys, and apes. While it may seem like an innocent reference to a “most valuable player” (MVP), the racial undertones associated with such language, particularly towards people of color, cannot be ignored.
The term “primate” has historically been used to demean people of color, associating them with animals in a derogatory manner. By using this term to describe Bumrah, Guha unintentionally reinforced harmful stereotypes, sparking outrage among fans and players alike.
A History of Racial Abuse in Cricket
This isn’t the first instance of racial abuse in cricket, particularly during India’s tours to Australia. In 2021, Indian players like Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj faced racial slurs from crowds at the Sydney Cricket Ground. The incident resulted in investigations and widespread condemnation, but it highlights the ongoing issue of racism in the sport.
Racial abuse in cricket, whether on the field or during live broadcasts, has no place in modern society. The sport is meant to unite people across different backgrounds, and remarks like these remind us that much work remains to be done to stamp out racism in cricket.
Isa Guha’s Apology
After the backlash, Isa Guha took to social media to apologize for her remarks, explaining that she never intended to offend anyone. She acknowledged that her choice of words was inappropriate and expressed regret for any hurt caused. However, the damage had already been done, and many felt that the apology was insufficient to undo the harm of such an insensitive remark.
The Role of Commentary in Shaping Public Perception
Commentators hold immense influence in shaping public perceptions, especially in a sport as followed as cricket. Their words carry weight and can set the tone for how players and fans view the game. For a respected former player like Guha to make such a comment during a live broadcast is concerning, as it sets a bad example for young viewers and fellow cricketers.
Fans and Players React
The incident quickly went viral on social media, with fans and fellow cricketers expressing their disappointment. Many took to Twitter to call out Guha for her inappropriate comment, while others voiced their support for Bumrah, condemning any form of racial abuse.
Bumrah, known for his composed demeanor on the field, did not publicly comment on the incident, but his supporters rallied around him, calling for greater accountability in commentary.
What’s Next for Cricket’s Anti-Racism Efforts?
This incident underscores the need for continued vigilance in addressing racism within cricket. While efforts have been made to combat racism on and off the field, instances like these remind us that more needs to be done to ensure that cricket remains an inclusive sport for all.
In response to this, cricket boards worldwide must reinforce anti-racism policies, train commentators, and ensure that all forms of abuse are swiftly addressed. The game of cricket can be a powerful platform for promoting diversity, but it requires collective effort to eliminate harmful stereotypes and racist remarks.
Conclusion
Jasprit Bumrah’s talent and performance on the field deserve to be celebrated without being marred by racist comments. Isa Guha’s “primate” remark was an unfortunate and hurtful incident that sparked outrage among cricket fans, highlighting the ongoing issue of racism in the sport. While Guha has apologized, it is essential for the cricket community to take further steps in combating racism, ensuring that incidents like these do not tarnish the game’s integrity.
The future of cricket must be one where respect, inclusivity, and fairness are at the forefront. With continuous education, awareness, and accountability, cricket can become a beacon of hope in the fight against racism in sports.
