In the first Women’s T20I played between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, a remark from a Lankan commentator stirred social media and triggered a big controversy. It all happened when Roshan Abeysinghe criticised a Bangladesh bowler for a no-ball which turned out to be a sexist comment and Roshan was slammed on social media.
During Sri Lanka’s innings in the 13th over, while left-arm spinner Nahida Akhter was delivering the third ball of her over, the umpire signalled a no-ball. Akhter had already given 6 runs in the first two deliveries, and Abeysinghe made a critical and harsh comment on live commentary about the no-ball call.
The no-ball initially appeared to be called for a front foot error, and Abeysinghe expressed shock at the concept of a woman overstepping the crease. He said women cricketers do not have big strides, so how can Akhter ball a no-ball?
“It’s a no-ball as well. This is unpardonable. Unpardonable on two counts: one, a spinner; second thing, a lady… a women’s cricketer. I don’t think they have big strides, so in that context, very very surprised how she could overstep,” said Abeysinghe.
However, replays showed that Akhter did not over step as she accidentally knocked the bails off with her foot which was the reason behind the no-ball call. Abesinghe then said, “Oh, she’s dislodging the bails, that is the reason, because like I told you, it can never be a stride.”
Here is the video:
This commentator should be removed from ever commentating on women’s cricket again.
😡
pic.twitter.com/Z5n9cMklpj— Georgie Heath🎙️ (@GeorgieHeath27) May 9, 2023
The Lankan commentator was slammed heavily on social media and upon seeing the backlash, Abeysinghe offered his apology. He responded to Georgie Heath, a journalist who uploaded the viral video, mentioning his intention was never to insult anyone and that his comment was out of pure logic, but he was sorry if his comments hurt anyone.
“Hi Georgie let me extend an unconditional apology if you or anyone else were offended. The comments were never meant to be insulting, but was made through a pure cricketing angle innocently. Still I am willing say sorry and stand corrected. Once again my apologies sincerely,” tweeted Abesinghe.
Hi Georgie let me extend an unconditional apology if you or anyone else were offended. The comments were never meant to be insulting, but was made through a pure cricketing angle innocently. Still I am willing say sorry and stand corrected. Once again my apologies sincerely.
— Roshan Abeysinghe (@RoshanCricket) May 10, 2023
Speaking about the match, the visitors successfully chased down the target of 146 in 19.5 overs with six wickets in hand. Bangladesh skipper Nigar Sultana was the star with the bat as she smashed a tremendous knock of 75 runs from just 51 deliveries, including 7 fours and 2 sixes. Both sides will next meet in the second T20I on May 11 in Colombo.
