The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has expressed strong support for national cricket captain Rohit Sharma following remarks by Congress party spokesperson Shama Mohamed, who described Sharma as “fat for a sportsperson” and “the most unimpressive captain India has ever had” in a now-deleted social media post.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia condemned the comments, stating, “It is very unfortunate that these derogatory, demoralizing comments are being made when the team is in the crucial stage of a global tournament.”
India’s Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya also criticized the remarks, emphasizing that such statements undermine the dedication and sacrifices of athletes representing the country on the global stage.
In response to the backlash, Mohamed clarified that her comments were intended as a general observation on sports fitness and not as body-shaming.
Sharma, who will turn 38 next month, recently led India to a Twenty20 World Cup victory before retiring from T20 international cricket.
The Indian cricket team remains focused as they prepare to face Australia in the semi-finals of the Champions Trophy.
