Indian Players Caught Mocking South Africa Captain in Viral Stump Mic Footage

The opening Test between India and South Africa at Eden Gardens has taken an unexpected turn off the field after stump mic audio captured Indian players making derogatory remarks about visiting captain Temba Bavuma. The clip, which spread rapidly across social media, has raised concerns about sportsmanship during the high profile match.

The incident unfolded shortly after Jasprit Bumrah delivered an impressive opening spell, removing Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton to put South Africa under pressure. When Bumrah appealed for a leg before wicket decision against Bavuma, the on field umpire turned it down. As India debated whether to take the review, the stump microphone picked up a private exchange between players.

In the viral footage, Bumrah can be heard making an inappropriate remark about Bavuma’s height. Rishabh Pant responded during the discussion over the height of the ball’s impact. The brief conversation, intended to be internal, quickly spread online and has been widely criticised as an example of unnecessary taunting and body shaming.

Cricket fans and analysts have called the remarks disappointing, noting that matches of this stature require players to show restraint and uphold the spirit of the game. Many users on social platforms expressed frustration that such comments overshadowed what had otherwise been a gripping opening session marked by Bumrah’s quality bowling.

Neither board has issued an official statement at the time of writing, but the incident is expected to prompt discussions around player conduct and the growing role of stump mic audio in exposing behaviour on the field.