The cricketing world erupted in controversy on Monday after Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed targeted Indian skipper Rohit Sharma, calling him “fat for a sportsman” and “the most unimpressive Captain India has ever had” in a now-deleted post on X.
However, legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar was quick to shut down the criticism, emphasizing that mental strength – not physical appearance that defines a great player.
“I have always said, if you want only slim guys, then you should go to a modelling competition and pick all the models. It’s not about that. It’s about how well you can play cricket. We talked about Sarfaraz Khan, he was vilified for a long time because he was on the heavier side.
But if he scores 150 for India in a Test match and follows it up with another two or three fifty-plus scores, then what’s the issue? I don’t think size has anything to do with it. It’s your mental strength —whether you can last the distance—that’s the most important thing. Bat well, bat for long, and score runs,” former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar was quoted as saying by India Today.
While the social media storm raged on, Rohit Sharma focused on what he does best, which is leading from the front. Under his captaincy, India secured a thrilling 4-wicket victory over Australia, booking their place in the ICC Champions Trophy final. The Men in Blue will now await the winner of the South Africa vs. New Zealand semi-final, with the title clash set for March 9 in Dubai.
Rohit Sharma etched his name in history as he led India to a glorious triumph in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, ending the nation’s long wait for an ICC trophy. Under his calm yet aggressive leadership, India defeated South Africa in a thrilling final, lifting the coveted trophy and reaffirming their dominance in the shortest format of the game.