Congress spokesperson Dr Shama Mohamed sparked a political firestorm after her critical remarks about Team India captain Rohit Sharma, drawing strong backlash from Bharatiya Janata Party leaders and cricket fans. Her comments followed India's 44-run victory over New Zealand in their Champions Trophy 2025 group-stage match, where Rohit Sharma scored 15 runs off 17 balls.
Taking to social media, she wrote: “Rohit Sharma is fat for a sportsman! Need to lose weight! And of course, the most unimpressive Captain India has ever had!”
Dr Shama's also responded to a social media user who called Rohit Sharma a "world-class player", questioning his legacy compared to Indian cricketing greats such as Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli, and Kapil Dev.
“What is so world-class about him when compared to his predecessors? He is a mediocre captain as well as a mediocre player who got lucky to be the captain of India.”
Her comments sparked massive outrage among cricket fans, who highlighted Rohit Sharma’s successful track record as captain, including leading India to a World Cup victory and being one of the most successful captains in IPL history.
Many also accused her of body shaming and disrespecting an Indian cricket icon.
Former Congress leader and now BJP member Radhika Khera slammed her ex-party, stating: "This is the same Congress that humiliated athletes for decades, denied them recognition, and now dares to mock a cricketing legend? The party that thrives on nepotism is lecturing a self-made champion?"
Taking a jibe at Rahul Gandhi’s leadership, Khera added: "Rohit Sharma led India to a World Cup victory, while Rahul Gandhi can’t even lead his own party without sinking it into chaos!"
She also criticized Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, urging him to focus on the party’s diminishing credibility instead of attacking an athlete who has brought glory to India. “Congress should worry about its own sinking dynast before taking cheap shots at India’s pride!” she wrote.
BJP National Spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala also lashed out at Congress over Dr Shama's remarks, highlighting their electoral failures under Rahul Gandhi.
"Those who have lost 90 elections under captaincy of Rahul Gandhi are calling captaincy of Rohit Sharma unimpressive! I guess six ducks in Delhi and 90 election losses is impressive, but winning a T20 World Cup isn’t! Rohit has a brilliant track record as captain, by the way!"
Amidst the controversy, Team India secured a commanding win over New Zealand, posting 249 runs in 50 overs before bowling out the Kiwis for 205. Spinner Varun Chakaravarthy delivered a stellar performance, dismantling New Zealand’s batting lineup and ensuring India’s entry into the semi-finals.
India will now face Australia in a high-stakes knockout match on March 4, with fans eagerly awaiting another intense battle.
Published: 03 Mar 2025, 09:57 am IST
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