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KEY TAKEAWAYS: - Former India Rohit Sharma's decision to host a Sony reality television show has sparked intense backlash from Indian cricket fans. - Supporters labelled the move as cringe-worthy, questioning his focus while still an active international player. - The television gig arrives amidst an ongoing debate regarding the opener's potential inclusion in the 2027 ODI World Cup squad. India fans slam Rohit Sharma's Sony reality TV show amid World Cup selection debate Indian cricket fans have never been shy about voicing their displeasure, and Rohit Sharma is currently finding out exactly where they draw the line. The veteran opener's surprising move to host a Sony reality TV show has triggered a massive wave of online backlash, with supporters tearing into the decision across social media. While cricketers transitioning into media roles post-retirement is an accepted career path, an active Indian player moonlighting in entertainment broadcasting has struck a nerve. The timing of the announcement has only amplified the frustration, dropping right in the middle of a heated national debate regarding his fitness and availability for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Instead of discussing his preparation for the upcoming international calendar, the discourse surrounding the Indian skipper has devolved into brutal critiques of his television presence. For a fanbase that treats the sport like a religion, seeing their talisman swap the practice nets for a reality TV set is proving incredibly difficult to digest. MORE: Rohit Sharma show on Sony: Trailer, start date, show timings and how to watch Fans label Rohit Sharma’s television pivot as an embarrassing distraction The reaction across digital platforms has been completely merciless. Fans who normally defend the Mumbai native's every move on the pitch were quick to label the Sony show as a PR-driven disaster that devalues his standing in the game. "Indian Cricketers Should Not Host Such Shows, Whether Before or After Retirement. It's Honestly Embarrassing to See Them in these cringe-worthy shows," one frustrated supporter wrote, capturing the overarching mood. Indian Cricketers Should Not Host Such Shows, Whether Before or After Retirement. It's Honestly Embarrassing to See Them in These Cringe Worthy Shows https://t.co/MJK6xsko3A — Harsh 17 (@harsh03443) September 5, 2026 Another fan took a more direct shot at his red-ball struggles, claiming the show was "more embarrassing than his test career." With an average of just 40.57, his Test career was never as lucrative as his ODI one, which the fan utilized to take a dig at the former skipper. More embarrassing than his test career https://t.co/fDZj1lqpbV — Thakursab (@Thakuryaarr) September 5, 2026 The hypocrisy of the situation wasn't lost on the Indian fanbase either. "I used to laugh at active Pakistan players for doing TV & news shows. Now, I am speechless," noted one observer. For years the global cricketing community used to take digs at Pakistani players for appearing on shows and news debates. I used to laugh at active Pakistan Players for doing TV & News shows. Now, I am speechless. https://t.co/A6YbzsP1CT — Rajiv (@Rajiv1841) September 5, 2026 Now that Sharma has done the same, fans aren't quite ready to accept that. Another summarised the sentiment bluntly, "This is literal dogshit. Sorry guys, but I am not going to support such PR-driven nonsense from an active Indian cricketer. A fan who values cricket would understand my sentiment." This is — Big Bren (@Bilkl_ricks_nai) September 5, 2026 Literal dogshit. Sorry guys,but I am not going to support such PR driven nonsense from an active Indian cricketer. A fan who values cricket would understand my sentiment. https://t.co/OkfX0Sh382 They refused to eat what the media is serving them. But it is not the end of the criticism against the Hitman. MORE: 'BCCI deserves praise' - Fans react as India set to play Japan in historic T20I ahead of Asian Games The reality show casts a shadow over Rohit's 2027 World Cup ambitions The frustration isn't just about bad television; it is fundamentally tied to Rohit's cricketing future. At an age where every minor physical niggle and drop in form is heavily scrutinised, committing to a broadcast production schedule sends a concerning message about his priorities. With the 2027 ODI World Cup looming on the horizon, fans are questioning if the veteran opener still possesses the necessary hunger to compete at the highest level. "Bro, that 2027 WC dreams," one fan pointed out, highlighting the immediate disconnect between hosting a reality show and preparing for a gruelling global tournament. bro that 2027 wc dreams pic.twitter.com/DTXXPd2jPb https://t.co/5vdpu4YUNi — 🎮 (@almostrohit) September 5, 2026 As another supporter argued, "Rohit should've at least waited for his international retirement before agreeing to host this cringe reality TV show. It just doesn't suit him at all." The consensus from the public square is clear: active players should be focused on their match statistics, not their television ratings. For someone who is looking to be a part of Team India's roster for next year's World Cup squad, this speaks volumes about where they are mentally. MORE: Will India and Pakistan players shake hands in the Women's Asia Cup 2026 clash? Reality television gigs suggest Rohit Sharma has already mentally retired When an active international cricketer starts chasing reality television pay cheques, the countdown to their retirement has already begun. You cannot simultaneously navigate a national team transition and play the role of a grinning game show host without compromising your authority in the dressing room. The BCCI has spent the last year attempting to ruthlessly manage player workloads and domestic commitments, heavily scrutinising players who skip tournaments like the Duleep Trophy to manage their schedules. Yet, the board seems perfectly fine looking the other way while a senior batsman like Sharma dedicates his off-season to a reality show. It reeks of a double standard that prioritises celebrity status over actual cricketing preparation. If Rohit Sharma genuinely wants to anchor India's batting lineup through the 2027 ODI World Cup, he needs to be sweating in the nets, not reading from a teleprompter. A player who values his legacy should know that trading professional cricket for TV is the quickest way to destroy his remaining goodwill with a notoriously unforgiving public. For all the latest cricket news, opinion, and commentary, and to share your voice, head to our Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter) pages