Commentator Roshan Abeysinghe passes sexist remark on air, apologises later

Former cricketer Roshan Abeysinghe made a sexist remark during the ongoing T20I series between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. The 60-year-old criticised Bangladesh left-arm spinner Nahida Akter for overstepping in the 13th over of Sri Lanka’s innings and stated that it is "unpardonable" for a woman cricketer to commit such an error. 

Abeysinghe mentioned that being a spinner it is not okay to overstep and especially for a women cricketer as they do not have big strides. His comments were not well taken by the cricket fans as the former cricketer had to apologize on Twitter later on. Abeysinghe mentioned that he never meant to insult anyone and the comment was made through with a cricketing angle.

It’s a no ball as well. Now this is unpardonable. Unpardonable on two counts: one, a spinner; second thing, a lady… a women’s cricketer. I don’t think they have big strides, so in that context, very very surprised how she could overstep,” Abeysinghe was heard saying on commentary.

Meanwhile, it was later discovered that the cricketer did not overstep and the umpire called it a no ball because Nahida had dislodged the bail at the non-striker's end with her foot.

“Hi Georgie let me extend an unconditional apology if you or anyone else were offended. The comments were never meant to be insulting, but was made through a pure cricketing angle innocently. Still I am willing say sorry and stand corrected. Once again my apologies sincerely,” Abeysinghe later clarified.

Georgie Heath 🎙️@GeorgieHeath27

This commentator should be removed from ever commentating on women’s cricket again. 😡

Roshan Abeysinghe@RoshanCricket

@GeorgieHeath27 Hi Georgie let me extend an unconditional apology if you or anyone else were offended. The comments were never meant to be insulting, but was made through a pure cricketing angle innocently. Still I am willing say sorry and stand corrected. Once again my apologies sincerely.

10:00 AM · May 10, 2023

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