Double Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker once again drew praise for her calm and measured response, even as a question at a recent event sparked debate online over sports media priorities.
The incident took place at an event in New Delhi marking 75 years of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), where India’s shooting fraternity had gathered to celebrate the sport’s legacy and achievements, including Bhaker’s double medal success at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
During a media interaction, a reporter shifted focus from shooting to cricket, asking Bhaker about teenage IPL sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who has recently been in the spotlight for his rapid rise in T20 cricket and milestone performances at a young age.
The question quickly triggered discussion on social media, with many users and commentators arguing that the setting was meant to honour Olympic shooters and that the query reflected cricket’s overwhelming dominance in India’s sporting discourse. Some sports voices also weighed in, suggesting that Olympic athletes often do not receive comparable attention despite their achievements on the global stage.
Despite the unexpected shift in topic, Bhaker responded in a composed and reflective manner. She spoke generally about the importance of guidance, mentorship, and a supportive environment for young athletes, adding that talent can emerge at any age and flourish with the right support system.
Her response was widely appreciated for its maturity, with many praising her ability to stay focused and positive even in an unrelated line of questioning.
The episode has once again highlighted ongoing discussions within Indian sports media about the balance of coverage between cricket and Olympic disciplines, particularly at events dedicated to non-cricket sporting achievements.
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