Paul Bongiorno, a veteran political journalist and columnist for The Saturday Paper and regular ABC Nightlife commentator, has ignited a fiery debate with his critique of Sunil Gavaskar’s exclusion from the Border-Gavaskar Trophy presentation. Describing the decision as “astounding, racist, and pitifully arrogant,” Bongiorno’s sharp remarks have cast new light on the contentious moment at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), where only Allan Border was invited to present the trophy after Australia’s 3-1 series win.
Gavaskar, who was present at the SCG as a commentator, expressed his surprise over the decision. “I certainly would have loved to have been there for the presentation. After all, it is the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and it is about Australia and India,” he said. Gavaskar revealed he had been informed before the final Test that his participation would depend on an Indian win or draw—a stipulation that left many baffled.
Cricket Australia (CA) has since acknowledged the oversight. A spokesperson stated, “We acknowledge it would have been preferable if both Allan Border and Sunil Gavaskar had been asked to go on stage.”
Bongiorno’s claim of racism sparked sharp responses, with prominent voices weighing in. Commentator Neil Mitchell described the decision as “astounding” and “arrogant” but argued there was “no evidence” to call it racist. In response, Bongiorno softened his stance slightly, saying, “You may have a point… it is so dumbfounding, it seemed an obvious explanation.”
Fans on X shared varied perspectives. Benji Slater commented, “While I personally don’t like they don’t include the person whose name is on the trophy from the losing side… it’s staggering to call this ‘racist.’” Another fan, Crickettragic, remarked, “Sadly surprising decision… but racist, no.”
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy has symbolised the historic cricketing rivalry and respect between Australia and India since its inception in 1996. Traditionally, both namesakes are present at the presentation, making this year’s deviation notable. Many view the joint presence of Border and Gavaskar as a reflection of the sport’s spirit of unity, transcending victories and losses.
The controversy has raised questions about presentation protocols. Including both namesakes, regardless of the outcome, is seen as a way to honour the trophy’s legacy and the game’s inclusive ethos. While administrative lapses happen, the incident highlights the importance of handling such moments with greater care.
As the cricketing world digests this episode, it serves as a reminder of the values cricket represents—respect, tradition, and inclusion. Moving forward, fans and players alike hope cricket boards will ensure that all those who embody the sport’s spirit are celebrated appropriately.
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🔥@PaulBongiorno criticises #SunilGavaskar’s exclusion from the #BorderGavaskarTrophy presentation, calling it “astounding, racist, & pitifully arrogant.” 🏏 @CricketAus acknowledges the oversight. 🤔 Was this a lapse or something more? 🧐 #TheIndianSunhttps://t.co/135CuUzDvs
— The Indian Sun (@The_Indian_Sun) January 7, 2025
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