ANI |
Updated: September 25, 2020 11:38 PM IST
Dubai [UAE], Sept. 25 (ANI): Former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar said on Friday that he had not made any ‘sexist comments’ about Indian captain Virat Kohli’s wife, Anushka Sharma, adding that people should listen carefully what he said in Kohli instead of reading the headlines.
Gavaskar’s comments came after actor Anushka called the commenter’s message “unpleasant.”
“I didn’t make any sexist comments. I just said that Virat Kohli didn’t have time to practice during the lockdown. We all saw how Virat Kohli was practicing on his terrace and Anushka was bowling for him. I just said that Virat only got the chance to practice at Anushka bowling, “Gavaskar said on the air during the Delhi Capitals-Chennai Super Kings game that is broadcast on Star Sports Hindi.
“I ask everyone to watch and listen again and then say whatever they want. Don’t read the headlines, listen and watch on your own. I didn’t say anything sexist, nor was I trying to blame anyone, when I was speaking about training during the lockdown, it wasn’t when Kohli was fired. He was fired 3-4 balls later, “he added.
Kohli was fired for a race on Thursday and Gavaskar commented on how the India and RCB skipper barely had time to train against quality bowling during the coronavirus-induced break. He also used the name of Kohli’s wife, Anushka, while making the comment.
Earlier in the day, in reaction to being drawn into the episode, the actor took to Instagram and wrote: “That Mr. Gavaskar, your message is disgusting is a fact, but I would love for you to explain to me why you thought about making a statement about a wife accusing her of her husband’s game? I am sure over the years you have respected the private lives of all cricketers when commenting on the game. Don’t you think you should have the same respect for me and for us? “
“I’m sure you may have many other words and sentences on your mind to use to comment on my husband’s performance last night or your words are only relevant if you use my name in the process. We are in 2020 and things are not yet.” I will not change for myself. When will I stop being dragged into cricket and stop being used to pass tearful statements? Respected Mr. Gavaskar, you are a legend whose name stands out in this gentlemen’s game. I just wanted to tell you what I felt when I heard you say this, “he added.
Having started the season with a win, RCB did not have a good start against KXIP on Thursday as they lost by 97 runs at the Dubai Cricket Stadium. Kohli didn’t bother with the fact that it was a bad day at the office not only for the team, but for him individually as well.
While the RCB skipper managed to score just one run with the bat, he missed two catches by KXIP skipper KL Rahul and that made all the difference as Rahul achieved a brilliant century to lead his team from the front. In fact, Rahul was in the 80s when he was knocked down and went to an undefeated 132 of 69 balls. (AND ME)
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