Preity Zinta Slams Gender Bias in Cricket: Calls Out Inappropriate Question on Glenn Maxwell
In a bold and unapologetic stand against gender bias, Bollywood actress and Punjab Kings co-owner Preity Zinta recently took to social media to address a sexist remark directed at her during a casual Q&A session on X. The incident, which quickly gained traction, has sparked a significant conversation about the challenges women face in male-dominated arenas like cricket ownership and corporate environments.
During the interactive session, a fan posed an inappropriate and sexist question, asking, ‘Mam, Maxwell ki aapse shadi nahi hui isiliye vo aapko team se accha nahi khelta tha?’ (Did Glenn Maxwell not play well for your team because he didn’t marry you?). The question, presumably meant as a jest, instead exposed deep-rooted biases that women in influential positions often encounter. Zinta, known for her composure and grace, did not shy away from confronting the issue head-on.
Responding with sharpness and clarity, Zinta wrote, ‘Will you ask this question to the male team owners of all IPL franchises, or is this discrimination reserved just for women?’ She further elaborated on her experiences, shedding light on the systemic challenges she has faced since entering the cricket world. ‘I never realized how difficult it is for women to survive in corporate setups until I got into cricket. I’m sure you meant this in humor, but take a moment to reflect on your words. If you truly understand the implication, it’s not pretty! I’ve worked hard for 18 years to earn my place, so please give me the respect I deserve and stop with the gender bias. Thank you,’ she added.
The fan subsequently deleted the question, but Zinta’s powerful retort had already resonated with thousands online. Her response highlighted a critical issue: women in sports ownership, despite their achievements, are often subjected to trivialization and sexist assumptions that their male counterparts rarely face. Zinta’s journey with Punjab Kings, formerly known as Kings XI Punjab, began in 2008 when she became one of the first women to co-own an IPL team. Over the years, she has been a passionate advocate for cricket, attending auctions and matches, and cheering for her team with infectious enthusiasm.
Beyond this incident, Zinta also used the session to share her thoughts on the game itself. She paid a heartfelt tribute to Virat Kohli following rumors and discussions around his potential retirement from Test cricket. Calling him a transformative figure in red-ball cricket, she lamented the void left by the departure of modern greats like Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin from various formats. ‘These players have defined an era of Indian cricket with their grit and genius. Their absence leaves a gap that will be tough to fill,’ she remarked, showcasing her deep-rooted love for the sport.
Zinta’s candidness has earned her widespread admiration, not just for addressing sexism with unwavering conviction but also for her genuine passion for cricket. Her response serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality in sports and corporate spheres. As one of the few women in IPL ownership—alongside figures like Nita Ambani of Mumbai Indians—Zinta’s stand amplifies the need for systemic change in how women are perceived and treated in these domains.
In an era where social media often amplifies insensitivity, Preity Zinta’s dignified yet firm stance is a beacon of inspiration. Her words challenge us to reflect on our biases and advocate for a more inclusive environment—be it on the cricket field or beyond. As the IPL continues to grow as a global phenomenon, voices like hers are crucial in ensuring that respect and equality score as high as any match-winning six.