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Sanjay Manjrekar, former India cricketer and well-known commentator, has once again found himself under fire for his on-air comments. During the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup opener between India and New Zealand, Manjrekar made a remark that did not sit well with viewers, sparking outrage on social media.
While discussing Munish Bali, the fielding coach of the Indian women’s team, Manjrekar said, “Sorry, meine unko pehechana nahin. North ke players ke saath mere zyaada dhyaan nahin hota.” (Sorry, I didn’t recognize him. I am not too aware of players from the North.) The comment came during the Hindi broadcast, when his fellow commentator mentioned Bali’s background as a former cricketer from Punjab.
Fans were quick to criticize Manjrekar for what many perceived as a display of regional bias and ignorance. The criticism was exacerbated by the fact that Harmanpreet Kaur, the Indian women’s team captain, is also from Punjab. Manjrekar’s words were seen as dismissive not just of northern players but also of key figures within Indian cricket.
Munish Bali’s Impressive Cricketing Resume
Munish Bali, a well-regarded coach from Patiala, has been involved in Indian cricket for years. Starting his coaching career with Punjab’s age-group teams, Bali has played a crucial role in the development of top fielders, including the likes of Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja. He was also an assistant coach for India’s U-19 team that won the World Cup in 2008. Bali has further experience as the men’s senior team’s fielding coach during tours to Ireland and New Zealand, where he worked alongside VVS Laxman when Rahul Dravid was unavailable.
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Manjrekar’s History of Controversial Remarks
This isn’t the first time Manjrekar has courted controversy with his commentary. He previously faced backlash during India’s 2019 tour of Australia when he made a disparaging remark toward co-commentator Harsha Bhogle. Although Manjrekar later apologized, his comments frequently attract attention for the wrong reasons. More recently, he was criticized for his handling of a Rajasthan Royals IPL match toss ceremony.
India’s Struggle in the T20 World Cup
India’s campaign in the Women’s T20 World Cup began on a disappointing note with a 58-run loss to New Zealand. The team struggled during the chase, with no batter scoring more than 15 runs. India’s hopes for qualification from the group stages now rest on a crucial upcoming match against Pakistan.
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