India vs Australia: Isa Guha’s controversial comment on Bumrah evokes ‘Monkeygate’ incident
New Delhi: Jasprit Bumrah delivered a brilliant bowling performance in Brisbane, claiming another five-wicket haul. However, his achievement was marred by controversy when former England cricketer and current commentator Isa Guha made a racially insensitive remark about the Indian pacer on Sunday.
The incident occurred on Day 2 of the third Test in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series between India and Australia at the Gabba. Guha made the remark after Bumrah gave India a brilliant start in the first innings, claiming two quick wickets.
While speaking on Fox Cricket about Bumrah’s significance, Guha said, “He’s the MVP, isn’t he? The Most Valuable Primate. Jasprit Bumrah, he’s the one who’s going to do all the talking for India, which is why so much focus was on him leading up to this Test match and whether he would be fit.”
Brett Lee, who was on air with Guha, did not respond to her comments. However, the episode quickly went viral on social media, with netizens promptly pointing it out on X.
#IsaGuha, on Sunday, came under fire after she made a racially sensitive statement on #JaspritBumrah. today: five overs, 2-4. So, that’s the tone, and that’s what you want from the ex-skipper,” Lee said. To which Guha added: “Well, he’s the MVP, isn’t he? Most valuable primate. pic.twitter.com/vQv1rKGSFP
— APNU GUJARAT NEW ZEALAND (@APNU_GUJARAT_NZ) December 15, 2024
Earlier, in 2008, former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh was involved in the ‘Monkeygate’ controversy with the late Australian all-rounder Andrew Symonds.
What is ‘Monkeygate’ controversy?
The ‘Monkeygate’ controversy refers to an incident during the 2008 India-Australia Test series in Sydney. Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh was accused by Australian cricketer Andrew Symonds of making a racial slur, calling him a “monkey.” Harbhajan denied the allegation, but after a lengthy hearing, he was initially banned for three matches. The ban was later reduced, sparking widespread debate.