A serious violation of sportsmanship has emerged from the Indian cricket team during the recent Test match at the Eden Gardens Stadium in Kolkata, where South African captain Temba Bavuma was allegedly body-shamed by Indian players. The unsavory comments made by the cricketers were recorded by the stump mic and have since gone viral on social media.
The incident occurred during a moment of high intensity. After a spectacular start to the day by Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, he believed he had trapped South African captain Bavuma Leg Before Wicket (LBW). Although the on-field umpire turned down the appeal, an unethical conversation between Bumrah and wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant was recorded during their discussion about taking a Decision Review System (DRS) referral.
The viral audio clip clearly captures Bumrah allegedly targeting Bavuma’s height, saying in Hindi, ‘Bona bhi hai yeh’ (He is also a shorty/dwarf). Rishabh Pant is then heard responding, ‘Bona hai magar gend upar lagi’ (He is short, but the ball hit high up).
This use of body shaming by professional athletes on the field has drawn sharp criticism from fans and commentators, questioning the adherence to ethical standards and fair play in the sport.
