'Superior. Condescending. Looking down on us ' - Harsha Bhogle slams Henry Blowfeld's statement on India's World Cup defeat

Former BBC Test Match Special commentator Henry Blofeld expressed joy on social media following Australia's impressive victory in the 2023 World Cup over unbeaten hosts India in the final. 

Blofeld applauded Australia for their victory over the unbeaten hosts India in the final and said that he couldn't be more thrilled that the Aussies won the World Cup.

“I couldn’t be more thrilled that the Aussies won the World Cup. Talk about going into the lions’ den and coming out first. Well done all of them. it won’t do India any harm. They’re getting a bit too big for their boots,” Blofed wrote on ‘X’.

Blofeld's comments, however, were met with criticism, with Indian commentator Harsha Bhogle recalling his early experiences in England and the condescending attitude he had to face. 

Despite this, Bhogle acknowledged the positive change in mindset among the newer generation, praising them for being "more conscious, less snobbish, and easier to be around." 

“When I first started going to England, this was the mindset I had to deal with. Superior. Condescending. Looking down at us. In the welcome change that has come about, the next generation is more aware, less snobbish and just easier to be with. It has allowed them to stay relevant and progress,” Harsha said.

He also fondly remembered working with "absolute gentlemen" like Christopher Martin-Jenkins, Vic Marks, Mike Selvey, and Bill Frindall during his early days at Test Match Special. Bhogle's perspective serves as a reminder that camaraderie and respect can bridge gaps and create a more inclusive environment in cricket commentary.

“On my first time on BBC, there were absolute gentlemen like Christopher Martin-Jenkins, who made me feel comfortable, and Vic Marks and Mike Selvey and then there were others like Bill Frindall…,” he added.

Bhogle's perspective serves as a reminder that camaraderie and respect can bridge gaps and create a more inclusive environment in cricket commentary.