Indian cricket great Sunil Gavaskar rallied to the support of Rohit Sharma during a mounting controversy about the fitness of Indian captain Rohit Sharma. The controversy was sparked when Congress national spokesperson Shama Mohamed criticized Rohit’s physical fitness, stating that he was “fat for an athlete.” Her words lit up social media with fierce disagreements from fans and pundits. But Gavaskar brushed the criticism aside, insisting that cricket is a game of talent and endurance of the mind and not of physical looks.

Sunil Gavaskar, who is known for his blunt views, vehemently opposed the notion that the shape of a player’s body should be the criterion for selection. He reminded everyone that cricket is not a pageant contest and players must be considered on the basis of their performances alone.

“If you want just slim boys, then you have to go for a modeling contest and select all the models. It’s not like that. It’s how well you play cricket,” Sunil Gavaskar has stated, as per India Today.

WATCH – Virat Kohli Explains His Animated Celebrations And Unwavering Passion For Victory

The ex-cricketer went on to point out the case of Sarfaraz Khan, who was questioned for his physique but demonstrated his ability with the bat. “Sarfaraz was questioned for being overweight, but if he gets 150 in a Test match and supports it with consistent performances, then what’s wrong?” Sunil Gavaskar asked. He emphasized that when it comes to cricket, mental fortitude and staying power are much more important than physical looks.

Gavaskar also pointed out that many of the best cricketers ever weren’t necessarily the fittest in traditional senses but were champions due to their cricket skills. “It’s about how long you can bat and if you have the mental toughness to get through it,” he further added.

Rohit Sharma, meanwhile, continues to be among the most dependable batsmen of international cricket. His talent to offer stable beginnings and stable matches when things become hot has earned him an important role in the Indian squad. He took India to the 2023 ODI World Cup final and won the 2024 T20 World Cup as the captain.

ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma’s Aggression: Anil Kumble & Sanjay Manjrekar Weigh In on Semi-Final Strategy

Now that India is gearing up to play the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final, Rohit again has the chance to show his critics wrong and take his team to ICC victory. His contributions in the league stage of the tournament have already proved vital, and his experience will prove essential during the knockout stages.