Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has found himself at the centre of an unexpected controversy – not for his bowling brilliance, but for a remark picked up by the stump mic during the ongoing first Test between India and South Africa at Eden Gardens.
A viral video circulating on social media captures Bumrah making an on-field comment aimed at South African skipper Temba Bavuma moments after appealing for an LBW. As per the audio, Bumrah is heard saying: “Bauna bhi hai b***.”**
Fans quickly reacted, accusing the Indian quick of mocking Bavuma’s height. The clip has triggered a fresh debate: Does this comment violate ICC rules, and could it lead to disciplinary action?
Understanding ICC’s Stance on Offensive or Discriminatory Language
The ICC has a strict policy designed to eliminate discrimination and maintain the spirit and global image of cricket. Their Anti-Discrimination Policy obligates players and teams to uphold standards that promote respect, diversity, and fairness.
Two specific sections of the ICC Code of Conduct could apply to Bumrah’s comment:
- Article 2.3
Addresses the use of language that is offensive, obscene, or abusive – especially when it is audible to spectators or picked up through stump mics. - Article 2.13 Covers personal insults, obscene remarks, or offensive comments directed at another player, support staff, umpire, or match referee.
Both sections clearly underline the ICC’s intention to protect the dignity of individuals and preserve the integrity of the sport. Any inappropriate conduct, whether during a match or otherwise, is liable for disciplinary action.
Same happened earlier too
This isn’t the first time the ICC has acted on inappropriate remarks. In June 2025, West Indies head coach Daren Sammy was fined 15% of his match fee for publicly criticising TV umpire Adrian Holdstock during the Test series against Australia.
Sammy accepted the charge and pleaded guilty to making an “inappropriate comment” towards a match official, reinforcing the ICC’s zero-tolerance approach.
Will ICC Take Action Against Bumrah?
With the stump mic audio now widely shared online, all eyes are on whether the ICC will classify Bumrah’s comment as derogatory or discriminatory, or see it as a heat-of-the-moment remark not warranting sanctions.
Given the ICC’s growing emphasis on player behaviour and the precedent set in similar cases, the response to this incident will be closely watched.
For now, the controversy continues to gain momentum, and Bumrah’s words intended or otherwise have become one of the biggest talking points of the Test series.