The gentleman’s game has long been celebrated for sportsmanship, but for the former Indian leg-spinner Laxman SivaramakrishnanThe reality behind the border ropes was often far from noble. Recently, the 60-year-old veteran took to social media and interviews to detail the horrific history of alleged racism and colorism that surrounded his journey from 14-year-old prodigy to seasoned commentator. His revelations sparked a necessary, albeit worrisome, conversation about deep-seated prejudices in the cricketing ecosystem.
Sivaramakrishna’s trials began long before he was clothed India cap. At the age of just 14, while serving as a net boxer in Chepauk, he was reportedly mistaken for a ground worker by a high-ranking Indian batter because of his dark complexion. The senior player asked the teenager to clean his shoes. Although the young spinner stood her ground, the incident served as a chilling introduction to the systematic bias she would face for decades.
Laxman Sivaramakrishnan talks about alleged racism in Indian cricket
Discrimination was not limited to isolated encounters with the elderly; it permeated his domestic career and international appearances. Sivaramakrishnan recalled that his Tamil Nadu teammates often called him “karupa” – a Tamil term used to mock his dark skin. This internal friction was reflected in external hostility. During matches in North Indian cities like Mumbai, Chandigarh and Jalandhar, the spinner was often subjected to derogatory chants from the stands. The people would make fun of him with his expression.Kalia, what will happen to you?,” a racially charged blow that reduced his athletic merit to a shadow of his skin.
Perhaps the most painful moment of his career happened on his 17th birthday. The celebration became a source of lasting trauma when a senior cricketer scoffed at the dark chocolate cake brought for the occasion. The player reportedly joked that the cake was the “right color” for a “dark guy.”
“Hey Sunny, you ordered the right color cake. Such a dark chocolate cake for a dark boy.” Sivaramakrishnan told The Indian Express.
The comment was so poignant that Sivaramakrishnan broke down in tears and refused to cut the cake, only then was he finally consoled. Sunil Gavaskar went in to comfort him.
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A lasting effect on mental health and exercise
With 41 international wins in 9 Tests and 16 ODIs, Sivaramakrishnan was widely regarded as one of the most talented leg-spinners of his generation. However, the mental scars from these incidents lingered long after his playing days were over. Even in his recently retired 33-year career as a commentator, the veteran suggested that diversity continues to play a role in how he is perceived and treated.
Statistics on the representation and treatment of players from South India have often been a quiet topic of discussion, but Sivaramakrishnan’s vocal stance brings the issue into focus. Her story highlights a broader cultural problem in India, where colorism (prejudice based on skin tone) is often dismissed as a joke despite its devastating psychological effects. Moving forward, the ex-spinner is not just voicing his personal grievances; challenges BCCI and the global cricket community must tackle the toxic culture that allows such discrimination to continue in the dressing rooms and in the stands.
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