In a significant turn of events, Congress leader Shama Mohamed expressed her satisfaction with Team India’s victory over Australia in the semi-finals of the Champions Trophy, led by captain Rohit Sharma. Her remarks come amid a controversy surrounding her previous comments on Sharma’s fitness.
Mohamed congratulated star batter Virat Kohli for his impressive performance, scoring 84 runs during India’s four-wicket triumph in Dubai and expressed eagerness for the upcoming final. “I am thrilled that India won the semi-final match against Australia under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy. Congratulations to Virat Kohli for his 84 runs. I am very excited and looking forward to the final,” she stated.
Following India’s impressive win, Mohamed took to social media to remark on the team’s “spectacular victory” and extend a special acknowledgment to Kohli for becoming the first player to score 1,000 runs in ICC knockout tournaments.
Her earlier remarks, which included criticizing Rohit Sharma as “fat for a sportsperson” and labeling him “the most unimpressive captain in India’s history,” caused a significant backlash. The BJP was quick to condemn her comments, accusing Congress of body-shaming a celebrated athlete. Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya expressed strong disapproval of her statements.
In her defense, Mohamed clarified that her comment was intended as a general observation regarding athletic fitness, rather than body-shaming. Meanwhile, Congress has distanced itself from her comments, emphasizing respect for the contributions of sporting icons. Party leader Pawan Khera confirmed that Mohamed was advised to delete her controversial post and exercise caution in future statements.
This controversy comes into focus again as older comments made by Mohamed about Virat Kohli resurface, including criticism regarding his lifestyle and endorsement choices. As the cricketing world prepares for the final, the spotlight remains on both the team’s performance and the ongoing discussions surrounding athletes’ fitness and public commentary.
