Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has come under severe criticism for a perceived racist remark while commentating during the India versus New Zealand Women's T20 World Cup 2024 game in Dubai on Friday (October 4).

It was India’s first match in the showpiece tournament and Manjrekar was performing Hindi commentary duties when he said that he doesn't have in-depth knowledge of players coming from the northern belt of the country.

The commentary team was discussing the Indian team's coaching staff. As Manjrekar's fellow commentator was sharing details on Munish Bali, a former Punjab player, he said that he couldn’t recognize him.

"Sorry, I could not recognise him. North ke players ki taraf mera zyada dhyaan nahi hota," Manjrekar said on-air.

The statement wasn’t well received by the fans as they called for Sanjay Manjrekar's sacking from the commentary panel.

Here are the reactions:

Coming to the match, India suffered a comprehensive 58-run defeat at the hands of New Zealand at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Chasing 161 to win, India’s innings folded for a paltry 102 in 19 overs. It was a listless batting display as no one in the line-up managed to touch the 20-run mark.

This result leaves India in a tricky early position in the Group A standings, with defending champions Australia the favorites to top a group that is fascinatingly poised after two outcomes that defied the form.

Harmanpreet Kaur and her troops are set to face arch-rivals Pakistan in their second group match on Sunday (October 6).