Melbourne: Veteran Australian commentator Ian Maurice has reignited the debate on Jasprit Bumrah’s bowling action, accusing cricketing authorities and media of avoiding scrutiny due to “political correctness.”
Maurice’s comments have sparked a heated discussion, with former Australian cricketer Greg Chappell coming out strongly in defence of the Indian pacer.
Maurice, in a social media post, questioned the lack of analysis of Bumrah’s action: “Why has no one questioned the delivery of India paceman Bumrah? Is it not politically correct these days? I’m not saying he’s throwing, but the position of the arm at the point of delivery should be analysed.”
He further suggested that cricket’s governing bodies hesitate to investigate high-profile players for fear of being accused of racial bias.
Chappell dismissed Maurice’s concerns as baseless, “By the way, please stop this nonsense of questioning Bumrah’s action. It is unique, but it is unequivocally clean. It demeans a champion performer and the game to even bring it up.”
Chappell lauded Bumrah’s impact on the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he has been instrumental in dismantling the Australian batting lineup.
Renowned bowling coach Ian Pont also weighed in, explaining why Bumrah’s action is legal under ICC regulations.
“A hyperextension is a natural movement for individuals with flexible joints. Bumrah’s arm remains within the 15-degree allowance, and his action is fully compliant with the rules.”
Bumrah has been the standout performer in the series, taking 21 wickets in six innings at an exceptional average of 10.90. His unique bowling style, combined with his ability to swing the ball both ways, has left Australian batters struggling.
While Maurice’s comments have stirred controversy, Chappell’s defence of Bumrah underscores the pacer’s importance to the game and highlights the ongoing debate between innovation and compliance in cricket.
