Cricketer-turned-commentator Isa Guha found herself in hot water during the second day of the third BGT Test in Brisbane. While praising India’s pacer Jasprit Bumrah, she inadvertently made a comment that sparked outrage among Indian cricket fans. Guha referred to Bumrah as the “MVP—Most Valuable Primate,” a term that drew backlash due to its potentially offensive connotation. She went on to discuss Bumrah’s importance to the Indian team, speaking about the focus on his fitness and his need for support in the game.
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However, the “Most Valuable Primate” remark was not well received. Many fans compared it to the infamous “Monkeygate” scandal involving Harbhajan Singh and Andrew Symonds during the Sydney Test in 2008, accusing Guha of insensitivity. The backlash on social media prompted Isa Guha to issue a public apology during Fox Cricket’s coverage ahead of the third day’s play. Acknowledging the incident, she 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 for others.”
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Guha’s on-air apology received praise from co-commentator and former India head coach Ravi Shastri. Commending her for taking responsibility, Shastri remarked, “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 make mistakes; we are all human. Let’s move on.”
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