The third Test of the Border-Gavaskar series between India and Australia at Gabba saw a rain-washed first day, but play resumed on the second day with Australia gaining the upper hand. Centuries from Travis Head and Steve Smith powered the hosts to a dominant position, crossing the 400-run mark by stumps.
Jasprit Bumrah (5 wickets for 72 runs) emerged as India’s most impactful bowler, helping the team stage a late fightback with his brilliant performance. However, IND vs AUS 3rd Test in Gabba has been marred by controversy after commentator Isa Guha allegedly made a racially insensitive remark about the premier pacer during the broadcast.
Was Jasprit Bumrah racially abused by Isha Guha?
On day 2 of IND vs AUS 3rd Test in Gabba, Jasprit Bumrah delivered a stellar performance, dismissing both Australian openers early. Former Australian pacer Brett Lee praised Bumrah’s efforts, saying, “Two wickets for four runs-excellent bowling. You want such performances from the former captain.”
However, the focus shifted from Bumrah’s brilliance to a controversial remark made by commentator Isa Guha. During the live broadcast, Guha referred to Bumrah as “the MVP, isn’t he? The most valuable primate, Jasprit Bumrah.” The term “primate,” which can translate to “monkey” in Hindi, has triggered backlash, with many criticizing the comment as racially offensive.
This controversy brings to mind one of cricket’s most controversial chapters – 2008 Monkeygate scandal – involving Harbhajan Singh and the late Andrew Symonds during India’s tour of Australia.
Isha Guha’s remarks seemed intended to be positive, as she later commended Bumrah’s performance. However, the term “primate” has two meanings. One, it refers humans and apes without tails. Yet, in certain contexts, it has been used as a slur, often to demean someone based on their race or intelligence.
Australia in command at Gabba
Despite Bumrah’s heroics, Australia ended Day 2 in a strong position. Resuming from 75/3, Travis Head’s explosive 152 and Steve Smith’s composed 101 powered Australia to 405/7 at stumps. Alex Carey remained unbeaten on 45, with Mitchell Starc contributing 7 runs.
Apart from Bumrah, rest of the Indian bowlers struggled, with Mohammed Siraj and Reddy managing one wicket each.
