[WATCH] IND vs NZ 2026: Varun Aaron and Sanjay Bangar clash over language in commentary box during first ODI

Arguments between commentators inside the commentary box are not new in Indian cricket, and the first ODI between India and New Zealand in Vadodara witnessed a similar moment. This time, the debate took place between Varun Aaron and Sanjay Bangar, who held differing viewpoints.

The incident occurred during the 12th over of the New Zealand innings, when Washington Sundar was bowling to Devon Conway and Henry Nicholls. KL Rahul, keeping wickets, offered Sundar some bowling advice in Hindi. Sundar’s initial overs were less effective, as he was delivering the ball quicker through the air, making it easier for the batters to play. Rahul suggested, in Hindi, that Sundar bowl slower through the air to make it more challenging for the opposition.

“Medium pacer jaise daal rahe ho yar, spinner ho, thoda ball ko dheema fekho,” said Rahul during the first ODI.

Aaron suggested that instead of giving tips in Hindi, Rahul could have used Tamil to communicate more easily with Sundar, as the all-rounder hails from Chennai. He then asked his co-commentator, Bangar, for his opinion, but Bangar held a different view.

“Mai rashtra bhasha me believe karta hun (I believe in the national language – Hindi),” said Bangar in the commentary.