Isa Guha apologises for Bumrah comment during third Test

Cricket commentator Isa Guha has issued a public apology following a comment made during the third Test regarding Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah. During a live broadcast, Guha referred to Bumrah as the “MVP” but added, “Most valuable primate, Jasprit Bumrah.”

In a statement delivered alongside Indian cricket legend Ravi Shastri, Guha expressed deep regret over the comment.

“Yesterday in commentary, I used a word that can be interpreted in a number of different ways,” she said. “I’d like to apologise for any offence caused. I set myself really high standards when it comes to empathy and respect for others.”

Guha clarified that her remark was meant to praise Bumrah’s achievements and emphasised her admiration for him.

“If you listen to the full transcript, I only meant the highest praise for one of India’s greatest players and someone I admire greatly,” she said. “I’m an advocate for equality and someone who has spent their career thinking about inclusion and understanding in the game.”

She acknowledged her choice of words was inappropriate and reiterated her apology.
“I was trying to frame the enormity of his achievement and I’ve chosen the wrong word. For that, I am deeply sorry. As someone of South Asian heritage, I hope people would recognise there was no other intention or malice there,” she added.

Ravi Shastri commended Guha for her on-air apology, describing it as a courageous act.
“Brave woman to do it on live television and apologise, it takes some steel,” Shastri said. “People are entitled to make mistakes; we are all human. But to own up and say sorry takes courage.”

He urged the cricketing community to move on and focus on the ongoing Test match, adding, “The Indian team would like to focus on the game that is taking place.”