TL;DR
- Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant referred to Temba Bavuma as "Bauna" during the India vs South Africa Test.
- "Bauna" means dwarf, sparking social media debate about the comment's intent.
- South African coach Ashwell Prince stated the team will not pursue the matter further.
- Bumrah later approached Bavuma, appearing to offer an apology after the match.
Controversy erupted during Day 1 of the India vs South Africa Test at Eden Gardens when a stump mic clip caught a conversation between the Indian duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant.
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Bumrah and Pant were criticised for referring to the South African captain, Temba Bavuma, as "Bauna", which led to an intense debate across social media.
The Hindi word "Bauna" means dwarf, a term that caused a stir because it was perceived as a jab at Bavuma's stature.
The incident occurred during the 13th over of South Africa's 1st innings at the Eden Gardens when a sharp delivery from Bumrah struck Bavuma on the thigh pad, prompting a loud appeal from the Indian Camp.
The appeal was turned down by the umpire, who deemed it not out. While discussing whether to take DRS or not, the Indian duo of Bumrah and Pant referred to Bavuma as 'Bauna' (shorty), which was a typical look at the height factor to make a call.
READ: How can India qualify for the WTC final 2027?
Coach reacts to controversy
South African batting coach Ashwell Prince has addressed the situation, stating that the team won't pursue the matter further and has no intention of filing any formal grievances.
Prince had told reporters: "No, there will be no discussion. It's the first time, obviously, it's come to my attention. I don't think there'll be any issues with what's happened out in the middle."
Bumrah chats with Bavuma amid controversy
Following the conclusion of the Test match, the visiting team rejoiced in their inaugural victory on Indian territory after a 15-year drought. Bumrah approached the South African captain, embraced him, and then engaged in a discussion.
It's unclear if the Indian fast bowler offered an apology to Bavuma, though the two appeared to be in good spirits during their interaction.
It seems that Bumrah has apologized to Bavuma!
— Manav Yadav (@ManavLive) November 16, 2025
Bavuma has led his team to a victory in India after 15 years! 🫡 #IndvsSA #bumrah #tembaBavuma pic.twitter.com/jzXAqr53nZ
MORE: Gambhir admits India got the pitch they wanted in defeat at Eden Gardens
What's on the horizon for India's cricket squad?
The Indian squad is now looking to recover and even the series when the two sides meet in Guwahati for the second Test, scheduled to commence on November 22.
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