'Most unimpressive captaincy': Congress leader fat-shames Rohit Sharma; BJP responds
What's the story
Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed has sparked a controversy with her comments on Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma. Taking to social media, she called him "fat for a sportsman" and said his leadership was the "most unimpressive captaincy India has ever had." Mohamed's remarks came after Sharma was dismissed for 15 runs off 17 balls in a match against New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy on Sunday.
Counterattack
BJP defends Sharma, criticizes Congress's past failures
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was quick to hit back at Mohamed for the remarks. BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla took a dig at the Congress party, highlighting its past electoral defeats. "Those who have lost 90 elections under the captaincy of Rahul Gandhi are calling the captaincy of Rohit Sharma unimpressive!" he said, defending Sharma's achievements, including his role in winning the T20 World Cup.
Accusation
BJP leader accuses Congress of disrespecting athletes
BJP leader Radhika Khera also condemned Mohamed's comments, accusing the Congress party of disrespecting athletes. "This is the same Congress that humiliated athletes for decades, denied them recognition, and now dares to mock a cricketing legend?" she said on social media. "The party that thrives on nepotism is lecturing a self-made champion? Congress should worry about its own sinking dynast before taking cheap shots at India's pride!" Khera said.
Match outcome
India marches into the semi-finals
India registered a commanding 44-run victory over New Zealand in their final group-stage clash of the 2025 Champions Trophy. The team posted a competitive total of 249 in their allotted 50 overs. This win confirmed India's spot in the semi-finals of the Champions Trophy, where they will face Australia on March 4.