Congress leader Shama Mohamed has been facing criticism for her comment on India captain Rohit Sharma's physique. In a now-deleted post on social media platform X, Shama said that Rohit is too heavy for a sportsperson and described him as the most unimpressive captain India has had.
The statement sparked public outrage, prompting responses from sporting legends and political entities alike.
Cricket icon Sunil Gavaskar responded to the controversy by emphasizing that cricket is more about mental toughness than physical appearance. Gavaskar stated, "If fitness was the primary selection criterion, then models should be chosen for the team.
It's about cricket skills, not how one looks." He further defended players who have been criticized for their physique, pointing out that performance on the field is what truly matters.
"If a player scores prolifically for India, their size should not be an issue. The focus should be on mental resilience and the ability to perform."
Shama Mohamed also took a dig at Rohit Sharma's leadership skills, calling him a mediocre captain when compared to his predecessors.
These comments have not only drawn ire from the Bharatiya Janata Party but have also led to her own party, Congress, distancing itself from her remarks. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera clarified, "The Indian National Congress highly values the contributions of sporting legends and does not support any statements that devalue their legacies."
As India prepares to face Australia in a pivotal Champions Trophy semi-final, the remarks continue to stir debate, highlighting the sensitive nature of body image discussions in sports.