Ex-cricketer Surinder Khanna Defends Rohit Sharma Amid Fat-Shaming Incident
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Synopsis
Former cricketer Surinder Khanna defended Rohit Sharma after a Congress leader labeled him 'fat' on social media. Khanna emphasized that Rohit has scored ample runs with his body weight and called the comments inappropriate, urging respect for the Indian captain.
Key Takeaways
- Surinder Khanna supports Rohit Sharma amid fat-shaming controversy.
- Shama Mohamed's remarks ignited significant backlash.
- Khanna emphasizes respect for Rohit's performance and body type.
- Rohit has been a consistent performer over his 16-17 year career.
- India remains unbeaten in the Champions Trophy under Rohit's captaincy.
New Delhi, March 3 (NationPress) Former cricketer Surinder Khanna came to the defense of India captain Rohit Sharma, emphasizing that the opening batsman has amassed numerous runs while maintaining his body weight. This support follows a controversial comment made by a Congress leader who labeled him as "fat" on social media. Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed made the statement during India's Champions Trophy 2025 final Group A match against New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday. She publicly referred to the Indian skipper as "fat" in a post on X, which she later deleted after facing backlash.
“Rohit Sharma is fat for a sportsman! Need to lose weight! And of course, the most unimpressive Captain India has ever had,” Shama expressed in her now-deleted post.
In response, Khanna dismissed such remarks as "stupid" and pointed out that Rohit has a unique body type that has remained consistent throughout his career. He further urged individuals to avoid such comments and to show respect for the Indian team captain.
"We all know Rohit (Sharma) since his early days; his photos reflect minimal change - in cricket, fitness and appearances can be misleading. He has scored plenty of runs with that body weight. Such topics should not be discussed; he is leading India, and we must respect him," Khanna stated during an interview with IANS.
"Everyone has their own body structure; some individuals are lean while others are more robust. I wouldn't pay much attention to it... It is inappropriate to mock or criticize someone. He is the captain of India and has been representing the nation in international cricket for the past 16-17 years," he added.
Shama's comments about Rohit ignited significant backlash, escalating into a major controversy. Consequently, the Congress party directed her to remove her social media post regarding Rohit. Under Rohit's leadership, India remains unbeaten in the ongoing Champions Trophy and is set to face 2023 ODI World Cup winners Australia in the semi-final on Tuesday.
