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Saugata Roy’s criticism of Sharma’s performance on the cricket field earned him criticism from colleague Madan Mitra who emphasised the importance of supporting athletes, especially during crucial matches
Sougata Roy (left) and Madan Mitra engaged in a war of words over Indian Team captain Rohit Sharma. (PTI)
Infighting within the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has taken a surprising turn, with Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma at the centre of the storm.
It all started with TMC leader Saugata Roy’s criticism of Sharma’s performance on the cricket field. Echoing Congress leader Shama Mohamed’s earlier remarks about the cricketer, Roy questioned Sharma’s place in the Indian team, stating that he “shouldn’t even be there” due to inconsistent performances.
“I agree with what Mohamed said on Rohit Sharma. She made the remark as a cricket viewer, not a politician. For how long will Rohit Sharma be spared? He scored a century once. He just manages to score two, five and 10 runs,” he said.
Roy’s comments, however, did not sit well within his own party, with sources telling News18 that many in the TMC termed the statements unnecessary. The difference of opinion escalated when Sharma delivered a match-winning performance on Sunday when he guided India to its third Champions Trophy title.
Seizing the opportunity, Madan Mitra, a known rival of Roy within the TMC and a former sports minister, publicly censured Roy for his criticism. Mitra emphasised the importance of supporting athletes, especially during crucial matches, and called out Roy’s remarks as unbecoming of an educated individual.
“On Sunday, Sharma was the man of the match; he played like a tiger. It’s very unfortunate that some of our colleagues have commented on him. As a former sports minister, I know when a team goes for matches, everyone should encourage them.”
Roy, currently in Delhi for the Parliament session, retaliated by questioning Mitra’s understanding and stating that he doesn’t pay heed to his comments. While acknowledging Sharma’s strong performance, Roy maintained his stance by pointing out the cricketer’s dismissal due to impatience.
The exchange has brought internal party conflicts to the forefront. Although a number of TMC leaders privately disagree with Roy’s choice of words, no official communication has been made. Meanwhile, Mitra continues to publicly criticise Roy, turning the situation into a full-blown feud within the party.
- Location :
Kolkata [Calcutta], India, India
