‘This Is a World Cup’: Sunil Gavaskar Slams Organisers Over ‘Boom Boom Bumrah’ Chants

Veteran cricketer and commentator Sunil Gavaskar sparked a fresh debate during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal between India and England at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium, criticising stadium organisers for encouraging crowd chants in an inappropriate moment.

 Sunil Gavaskar criticises stadium organisers for prompting ‘Boom Boom Bumrah’ chants mid-over at the World Cup.

Gavaskar’s Concerns: Respect the Occasion

During the high‑stakes match, the stadium DJ prompted spectators to chant “Boom Boom Bumrah” while Jasprit Bumrah was in the middle of his bowling run‑up a move that didn’t sit well with Gavaskar. The former Indian great, who was commentating on the game, voiced his displeasure live on air, saying that while cheering between overs is fine, encouraging chants during delivery stride is inappropriate in a World Cup context.

“Asking the crowd to chant ‘Boom Boom Bumrah’ while he is bowling is not a good idea. They can do it between overs, but not during the over. This is a World Cup,” Gavaskar stated emphatically.

Why Gavaskar Felt It Crossed the Line

Gavaskar’s reaction stems from his belief that a World Cup atmosphere demands a higher standard of professionalism than franchise tournaments like the IPL. In his view, overly enthusiastic crowd interventions especially while the ball is in play can disrupt the flow of the game and may even affect concentration during pivotal moments.

Fans and analysts following the game pointed out that motivational crowd chants are common in domestic T20 leagues but are usually reserved for breaks in play. Gavaskar’s main critique was that having such chants while a bowler is on the pitch and running in could be distracting or send incorrect signals about the seriousness of the match.

More Than Just a Chant: A Larger Debate

This incident isn’t the first time Gavaskar has called out unconventional entertainment at major cricket events. Earlier in the tournament, he and fellow commentator Ravi Shastri criticised the International Cricket Council (ICC) for hosting a laser show during the drinks break of a Super 8 match, arguing that such displays could affect players’ focus.

His comments sparked mixed reactions among fans and viewers some agreeing that crowd chants should be more spontaneous and organic, others feeling that such cheers enhance the live experience. Online forums and social media threads reflected this divide, with many supporters echoing Gavaskar’s point that neutrality and decorum should be upheld in global tournaments.

Context: India’s Thrilling Win

India went on to win the semifinal by seven runs, with standout performances from batsmen and bowlers alike. Sanju Samson’s explosive 89 runs led the charge, while Bumrah’s tight death bowling helped stifle England’s chase, securing India’s spot in the final.

What It Means for Future Matches

The comments from a cricketing legend like Gavaskar have reignited a broader discussion on how entertainment and fan engagement should be balanced with the game’s integrity especially at marquee events like the World Cup. As the tournament advances, fans and pundits alike will be watching whether organisers adapt to feedback from experts and cricketing authorities.