Sports
Isa Guha’s Comment on Bumrah Sparks Outrage, Apologizes
Former England cricketer and renowned commentator Isa Guha has publicly apologized after referring to Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah as a “primate” during commentary on the second day of the third Test between India and Australia at the Gabba.
The incident occurred during the morning session when Guha, praising Bumrah’s importance to the team, said:
“Well, he’s the MVP, isn’t he? Most valuable primate, Jasprit Bumrah. He is the one that’s going to do all the talking for India, and why so much focus was on him in the buildup to this Test match, and whether he would be fit.”
The remark quickly drew criticism on social media, leading Guha to address the matter before the start of play on Monday.
During a live broadcast, she issued a heartfelt apology:
“Yesterday in commentary I used a word that can be interpreted in a number of different ways. Firstly, I’d like to apologise for any offence caused. I set myself really high standards when it comes to empathy and respect for others. If you listen to the full transcript, I only meant the highest praise for one of India’s greatest players, someone I admire greatly.”
Guha, who has South Asian roots, emphasized that her comment was unintentional and made without malice. She also reiterated her commitment to fostering equality and inclusion in cricket.
Indian cricket legend Ravi Shastri, her co-commentator, commended Guha for her accountability:
“Brave woman, to do it on live television and apologise. It takes some steel. As far as I’m concerned, game over. People are entitled to make mistakes. To own up and say, ‘I’m sorry’… it takes courage. She’s done it. Let’s move on,” Shastri said.
India Faces Uphill Battle in the Third Test
On the field, India is struggling to keep up with Australia in the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Australia posted a massive first-innings total of 445, led by centuries from Steve Smith and Travis Head. In response, India’s top order collapsed under pressure.
Openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill were dismissed cheaply, scoring just four and one, respectively. Skipper Virat Kohli followed soon after, falling for three to Josh Hazlewood.
Rishabh Pant managed only nine runs before being dismissed by Pat Cummins, leaving India reeling at 48/4 by the third day. KL Rahul (30*) and Rohit Sharma (0*) remain at the crease, with India trailing by 397 runs and desperately trying to avoid the follow-on.
Sports
Virat Kohli Confronts Australian Journalist Over Family Privacy
Indian cricket star Virat Kohli engaged in a heated exchange with an Australian journalist in Melbourne on Friday, ahead of the Boxing Day Test against Australia, over concerns about his family’s privacy.
The incident occurred at the airport when Kohli noticed video cameras pointed in the direction of his children, leading him to believe they were being filmed without his consent.
Known for fiercely guarding his family’s privacy, Kohli confronted a journalist from Channel 7, saying, “With my kids, I need some privacy. You can’t film without asking me.”
Channel 7 reporter Theo Doropoulos later clarified that the situation arose from a misunderstanding, as Kohli assumed the cameras were focused on his family. Despite this, Kohli’s frustration was evident as he firmly reiterated his stance on maintaining boundaries with the media.
The incident underscores Kohli’s unwavering commitment to protecting his family from media intrusion, especially his children, as he balances public life with personal responsibilities.
Sports
Saim Ayub Becomes Youngest to Score Century Against South Africa in a Chase
Saim Ayub etched his name in history by becoming the youngest player to score a century against South Africa while chasing, achieving the milestone at 22 years and 207 days in 2024.
Breaking records, Ayub surpassed Quinton de Kock, who previously held the title for the youngest to score a century in South Africa during a chase at 23 years and 48 days in 2016.
Ayub now ranks as the third youngest player overall to score a century against South Africa in ODIs, following Ahmed Shehzad (22 years, 4 days) and Kane Williamson (22 years, 167 days).
This remarkable achievement showcases Ayub’s immense talent and promises a bright future for the young star, as fans eagerly await his next performances on the international stage.
Sports
Mohammad Amir Announces Retirement from International Cricket Again
Pakistan’s star fast bowler Mohammad Amir has announced his retirement from international cricket following Pakistan’s disappointing performance at the T20 World Cup earlier this year.
The 32-year-old cricketer made the announcement on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “After careful consideration, I have taken the difficult decision to retire from international cricket. These decisions are never easy, but they are inevitable.”
Amir emphasized that it was time for the next generation to step up, saying, “I feel this is the right time for the next generation to take the baton and elevate Pakistan cricket to new heights.”
Reflecting on his career, Amir expressed pride in representing his country, calling it “the greatest honour of my life.” He also extended his gratitude to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), his family, friends, and fans for their unwavering support.
Earlier in the year, Amir had reversed his retirement and was brought back into the squad for the T20 World Cup, held jointly in the Caribbean and the United States. However, Pakistan’s campaign ended in disappointment after losses to the US and India in the group stage, contributing to Amir’s decision to step away from international cricket once again.
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