India's fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has once again faced allegations regarding his bowling action, with veteran Australian sports commentator Ian Maurice attributing cricket's reluctance to scrutinize the pacer to "political correctness." Maurice further criticized the Australian media for failing to examine Bumrah's action closely.

Bumrah has emerged as a key player in the current Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, having taken 21 wickets in six innings at an impressive average of 10.90. This performance includes two five-wicket hauls, one achieved during the opening Test in Perth, where he captained the Indian team in the absence of Rohit Sharma. The second five-wicket haul occurred in Brisbane during the third Test, where he concluded the match with a total of nine wickets, despite the game ending in a draw.

His unique ability to swing the ball in both directions with a short run-up has sparked curiosity among fans, many of whom have called for an investigation into his bowling action following his remarkable performances in the series.

On Monday, Maurice expressed his concerns on social media, stating: “Why has no one questioned the delivery of India paceman Bumrah? Is it not politically correct these days? I'm not suggesting he's throwing, but the position of the arm at the point of delivery warrants examination. Nine would have scrutinized it closely some years ago.”

Maurice, who believes that cricket authorities are hesitant to analyze Bumrah's action for fear of being labeled racist, clarified his stance by saying, "I wish those who are quick to criticize would take the time to read my comments. I said, 'I'M NOT SAYING HE'S THROWING ... but his action should be analyzed...that's all!'"

Greg Chappell defends Bumrah

The bowling action of India's vice-captain has been scrutinized throughout his career, particularly following comparisons to Pakistan's Mohammad Hasnain, who faced a ban from international cricket in 2022 due to a suspect action.

In response to these concerns, esteemed bowling coach and former England player Ian Pont clarified that there has never been any uncertainty regarding Bumrah's action. 

"You can observe that his arm remains straight from the wrist to the elbow. The regulation states that when the arm is above the vertical, the elbow must not bend beyond 15 degrees," Pont explained. "The forward flexion in his arm indicates hyperextension, which is permissible for individuals with hyper-mobile joints."

He further elaborated, "Hyperextension refers to a movement that aligns with the direction of motion, rather than downward or sideways. This is why Bumrah's action is deemed legal, as it adheres to the standards of hypermobility."

Recently, former Australian cricketer Greg Chappell criticized fans for doubting the technique of the 30-year-old bowler. 

“India's bowlers, led by the formidable Jasprit Bumrah, appeared sharper and more threatening. Australia was dismissed for 104 runs in 52 overs, with Bumrah proving nearly unplayable at times,” Chappell stated in a column for the Sydney Morning Herald.

“Furthermore, I urge everyone to cease this unfounded questioning of Bumrah's action. While it is distinctive, it is undoubtedly clean. To raise such doubts is to undermine a champion athlete and the integrity of the sport.”

Read Also: Travis Head's Fitness Concerns Quashed After Short Net Session

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!