Bumrah and Pant’s ‘Baman’ Gaffe Sparks Apology

Kolkata: The recently concluded India–South Africa Test series in Kolkata witnessed a moment that sparked significant discussion off the field. South African captain Temba Bavuma revealed that Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant had addressed him with the term “Baman” — meaning “dwarf” — during the match. Both players have since offered formal apologies to Bavuma.

Speaking to cricket portal ESPNcricinfo, Bavuma recounted the incident and also commented on a controversial remark made by South Africa’s coach, Shukri Conrad, regarding India during the same series.

The incident occurred during an LBW (leg before wicket) appeal in the 13th over of South Africa’s innings, when Bumrah’s delivery struck Bavuma’s pads. Although the on-field umpire did not respond to the appeal, Bumrah consulted with Pant and his teammates about taking a review, ultimately deciding against it. It was at this moment that Bumrah used the term “Bawna” in reference to Bavuma. The remark, once made public, generated considerable criticism directed at the Indian pacer.

Interestingly, Bavuma admitted that when Bumrah and Pant approached him to apologise, he initially did not understand the reason behind their gesture — likely due to language barriers. It was only after speaking with the team’s media manager that he fully comprehended the context.

Bavuma told ESPNcricinfo:

“They had said something about me in their language, which I later understood. The next day, both Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah came to apologise. At the time, however, I did not fully grasp why they were apologising. Only later, after speaking with the media manager, did I understand.”

The South African captain emphasised that he harbours no personal resentment :

“What happens on the field stays on the field. Words can be remembered and used as motivation, but personally, there is no anger or ill-feeling.”

The series also saw controversy surrounding South African coach Shukri Conrad’s comments, in which he admitted that the touring side aimed to make India “grovel” on the field. Bavuma noted that media pressure had been significant, but he felt Conrad was best placed to provide context. He added that, initially, the comment felt rather sharp, but later he appreciated the competitive intensity it highlighted.

Bavuma also mentioned that after the subsequent ODI series, Conrad discussed the issue and agreed he could have chosen his words more carefully. Bavuma concurs with this reflection.

Incident Summary :

This episode underscores the complex interplay of on-field competitiveness, cultural differences, and language nuances in international cricket, while highlighting Bavuma’s composed and measured response.