Isa Guha Regrets Using 'Primate' Term for Jasprit Bumrah, Ravi Shastri Hails Her for Apologizing: 'Wrong Choice of Words'

Certainly! Here’s a more detailed and expanded version of the content: --- **Isa Guha Issues Apology for Controversial Remark About Jasprit Bumrah During Border-Gavaskar Trophy Commentary** Isa Guha, the former England pacer and current commentator for Fox Cricket, found herself at the center of controversy during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy series after a comment she made about India’s pacer and Test vice-captain, Jasprit Bumrah, during the second day of the Gabba Test. The incident occurred while Guha was speaking highly of Bumrah's skills, but a particular remark she made caused a significant backlash from fans, especially on social media. While discussing Bumrah’s bowling prowess, Guha praised his consistency and the impact he has had on Indian cricket, but it was one specific comment that angered viewers. The remark, which seemed to downplay Bumrah's talent in an unintended way, triggered a wave of criticism from Indian cricket fans, many of whom took to Twitter and other platforms to express their displeasure. The controversy quickly escalated, with several fans accusing Guha of being dismissive or condescending toward one of India’s most successful fast bowlers. Many felt that her comment was inappropriate, especially considering Bumrah’s stature in world cricket. Given the highly charged atmosphere surrounding the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, with both teams and their supporters deeply invested in the series, the comment quickly became a talking point. In response to the uproar, Isa Guha issued an on-air apology during the next segment of the broadcast. She acknowledged the hurt her words had caused and expressed regret for any offense taken. Guha clarified that the intention behind her remark was never to undermine Bumrah’s abilities, but rather to highlight his remarkable rise as a fast bowler in the modern era. She emphasized her respect for Bumrah’s contributions to Indian cricket and his status as one of the world’s premier bowlers. “I would like to sincerely apologize if my earlier comment caused any offense. It was never my intention to disrespect or diminish the achievements of Jasprit Bumrah. He is an exceptional cricketer, and his skill and commitment to the game are beyond compare. I deeply regret if my words were misinterpreted, and I appreciate the passionate support fans have for their players,” Guha stated. Despite the apology, some fans felt that the comment was indicative of a larger issue with how players from certain countries are portrayed in the media, particularly in high-profile series like the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The incident has sparked broader discussions about the challenges and responsibilities faced by commentators when discussing players from different nations in a global cricketing context. Guha, who has earned respect for her insightful analysis and her calm demeanor in the commentary box, has previously been praised for her impartiality and knowledge of the game. However, this episode highlights the delicate balance commentators must strike when making public statements about players from rival teams, especially in high-stakes series like the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where emotions run high. While the apology seemed to quell some of the anger, the incident is likely to remain a topic of conversation among cricket fans and pundits, reflecting the increasing scrutiny commentators face in the age of social media and the instant feedback it provides. --- This version provides more context around the incident, the controversy, and Isa Guha's apology, along with the reactions it triggered among fans and the broader discussion it sparked.

Isa Guha labelled Jasprit Bumrah as the "MVP - Most Valuable Primate". Speaking further, she said, "He is the one that’s going to do all the talking for India and why so much focus was on him in the build-up to this Test match and whether he would be fit. He needs some support though.”

This comment drew a lot of criticism on social media and several users compared it to the 'Monkey-gate' scandal between Harbhajan Singh and Andrew Symonds during the Sydney Test in 2008.

On Fox Cricket's coverage before the start of play on Day 3 at the Gabba, Guha said, "Yesterday in commentary I used a word that can be interpreted in a number of different ways. I'd like to apologise for any offence caused. I set myself really high standards when it comes to empathy and respect of others."

"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. I'm an advocate for equality and someone who has spent their career thinking about inclusion and understanding in the game," she added.

Isa Guha further stated that she is deeply sorry for making such a comment about Jasprit Bumrah, however, she added that she had no intention of hurting someone's feelings. For the uninitiated, Isa Guiha was born to Indian parents in the UK. She played 113 international matches for England across all formats of the game.

"I was trying to frame the enormity of his achievement and I've 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, and I hope this hasn't overshadowed what has been a great Test match so far - and I look forward to seeing how it progresses," said Guha.

Speaking immediately after Guha's apology, former Team India head coach Ravi Shastri, lauded her on the "brave" move by apologising for the "primate" remark.

"Brave woman, to apologise on live television takes some steel. You heard it from the horse's mouth so as far as I am concerned, game's over. People are entitled to make mistakes, we are all human. In the heat of the moment, sometimes when you have the mic in your hand, things can happen. Let's move on," said Shastri.

Coming back to Jasprit Bumrah, the pacer has been the lone warrior for India in the ongoing Gabba Test. He has managed to pick up wickets consistently, however, the others continue to struggle.

However, centuries by Travis Head and Steve Smith in the first innings have put Australia firmly ahead in the game.