Former England international-turned-commentator Isa Guha issued a public apology on live television before the start of the third day’s play of the ongoing Gabba Test between India and Australia on Monday, December 16. Guha had used a controversial remark for Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah on Day 2 of the third Test in Brisbane on commentary and there was a huge hue and cry over the usage of the word ‘primate’ by her.
Guha issued a sincere apology saying that there was no malice and it is a word that can be interpreted in very many different ways.
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,” Guha said on Fox Sports’ broadcast. “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 as well. I’m an advocate for equality and someone who has spent their career thinking about inclusion and understanding in the game,” she added
“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,” Guha further said.
Adam Gilchrist and Ravi Shastri were on the broadcast for Fox alongside Guha and the former India head coach commended her for coming out to apologise voluntarily on live TV.
