Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh has come out in strong support of Rohit Sharma after Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed’s remarks about the Indian captain’s fitness sparked controversy. Mohamed, in a now-deleted post on X, had questioned Rohit’s fitness and leadership, leading to widespread criticism. Several personalities have since spoken in Rohit’s defense, recognizing his contributions to Indian cricket.
Harbhajan, known for his outspoken nature, took a firm stance against the criticism, questioning Mohamed’s qualifications to comment on an athlete’s fitness.
“Well, there will be people who’ll keep on talking about his fitness, captaincy skills. But I just asked a very simple question to that lady who made this remark about Rohit Sharma’s fitness, whether she’s a part of BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) or any other organization where she understands the rule and also the fitness. What are her own achievements when it comes to sports?” Harbhajan told India Today.
“So, putting a finger towards anyone is very easy but at the same time, the thumb is facing towards you, so just check yourself too,” he added.
Harbhajan highlighted the immense pressure that comes with representing India and leading the team, especially in a high-stakes tournament like the Champions Trophy.
“It’s very hard for people to actually understand how it is to be playing for India and the kind of pressure a player goes through—only that player knows. He’s got the responsibility to take the team forward, but he also needs to perform as a player. Rohit Sharma is a very hardworking guy, he’s a selfless guy. He’s someone who’s a leader, who leads from the front, who always puts the team’s interest first rather than himself. Good to have a leader like him, a player like him,” said Harbhajan.
Having played alongside Rohit for both India and Mumbai Indians, Harbhajan also credited him for fostering a strong team culture, which has been instrumental in India’s success in the tournament.
“I respect those people who respect the fact that the team comes first rather than. I always say, it’s now about ‘me’, it’s about we. How we can play together and win the cup. The captain’s responsibility is to keep everyone on one page. Rohit Sharma must get credit for that for putting everyone together in the field, on one page with one mission to win the cup,” he stated.
Rohit recently made history by becoming the first captain to lead his team to the finals of all four ICC events. With India set to face New Zealand in the Champions Trophy final in Dubai, he will be aiming to add another milestone to his career with a championship victory.
