“Irfan Pathan’s IPL Commentary Ban: The Latest in a Series of Controversial Cricket Snubs 2025”

Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has reportedly been left out of the IPL 2025 commentary panel, raising speculation about the reasons behind this decision. Sources suggest that broadcasters took this step due to concerns over potential bias and Pathan’s criticism of certain players, which allegedly led to dissatisfaction among stakeholders. Known for his candid opinions, Pathan has been a regular voice in cricket broadcasting, but this latest development highlights the challenges faced by commentators in maintaining neutrality.

This is not the first time an Indian commentator has faced backlash. Several well-known names in Indian cricket have found themselves at the center of controversy due to their remarks, leading to public criticism, temporary suspensions, or even removal from official panels. Below are some notable instances of Indian cricket commentators facing scrutiny.

Sanjay Manjrekar’s Removal from the BCCI Commentary Panel (2020)

Sanjay Manjrekar, a former Indian batsman and long-time commentator, faced significant backlash in 2019 when he referred to all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja as a “bits and pieces player” during the ICC Cricket World Cup. His remark implied that Jadeja was not a complete cricketer, which did not sit well with fans or the player himself. Jadeja responded publicly, calling out Manjrekar for his comments. The controversy escalated, and in 2020, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decided to remove Manjrekar from its official commentary panel. While he later expressed regret over his choice of words, his removal marked one of the most high-profile cases of a commentator losing his position over an on-air comment.

Harbhajan Singh’s Racism Controversy

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh, known for his outspoken nature, recently found himself in trouble over a remark he made about England pacer Jofra Archer. Harbhajan allegedly used a phrase that many perceived as racially insensitive, sparking widespread criticism. Given the growing emphasis on cultural sensitivity in global sports commentary, the incident led to serious debates about the responsibility of commentators in choosing their words carefully. Although Harbhajan later apologized and clarified that his statement was not intended to offend, the controversy highlighted how even unintended remarks can have significant consequences.

Isa Guha’s Unintentional Slip-Up

British-Indian commentator Isa Guha, a former England cricketer, became the subject of controversy when she referred to Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah as “India’s Most Valuable Primate” during a live broadcast. While her intention was to praise Bumrah’s exceptional performance, the use of the word “primate” drew backlash on social media, with many interpreting it as inappropriate. Recognizing the sensitivity of the matter, Guha issued an immediate public apology, emphasizing that she had meant to call him “India’s Most Valuable Player” (MVP). The incident underscored the heightened scrutiny under which commentators operate, especially in an era where every statement is analyzed and dissected on social media.

Navjot Singh Sidhu’s Suspension Over Political Remarks

Navjot Singh Sidhu, known for his colorful commentary style and humor, faced suspension from a major broadcasting network following his controversial remarks about Indo-Pak relations in 2019. In the wake of a terror attack in Pulwama, Sidhu’s comments suggesting that dialogue with Pakistan should continue sparked outrage across India. His statements led to a backlash, and he was swiftly removed from his role as a commentator on a popular cricket show. This incident demonstrated that political remarks, even if made outside the context of cricket, can have severe professional repercussions for broadcasters.

The Growing Scrutiny on Cricket Commentators

Cricket commentators play a crucial role in enhancing the viewing experience, offering insights and engaging discussions. However, their words are now under more scrutiny than ever before. The rise of social media has amplified the impact of every comment made on-air, with fans and analysts quick to call out any perceived bias or insensitivity. The cases of Irfan Pathan, Sanjay Manjrekar, Harbhajan Singh, Isa Guha, and Navjot Singh Sidhu illustrate the fine line commentators must walk between being opinionated and maintaining professional decorum.

Lessons for Future Commentators

The controversies surrounding these commentators highlight key lessons for those in the field:

1. Neutrality Matters – Expressing strong opinions is an integral part of commentary, but perceived bias can result in backlash or even job loss.
2. Cultural Sensitivity is Crucial – Given cricket’s global audience, commentators must be mindful of their language to avoid unintentional offense.
3. Public Perception Shapes Careers – In the age of social media, public reaction can influence broadcasters’ hiring decisions, making it essential for commentators to carefully frame their opinions.
4. Political Views Can Backfire – Cricket and politics often intersect, but overt political statements can cost commentators their jobs.

Conclusion

Irfan Pathan’s exclusion from the IPL 2025 commentary panel reflects the increasing scrutiny faced by cricket commentators today. While expertise and analysis remain vital, the way commentators articulate their views has become just as important. The controversies involving Manjrekar, Harbhajan, Guha, and Sidhu reinforce the evolving expectations from cricket broadcasters. As the landscape of sports commentary changes, maintaining a balance between honesty, professionalism, and sensitivity will be key to a commentator’s success in the industry.