OIympics: Abhinav Bindra, Ashwini Ponnappa back Indian athletes after criticism from Padukone

Prakash Padukone talking to the press at Paris said, "I think that it's high time the players also take responsibility. At Least for the results in this Olympics and the previous one, you cannot hold the federations and government responsible for the results. They have all done whatever they can. Ultimately the responsibility is on the players to go and deliver when it matters the most."

He criticised the players for not having accountability, especially targeting the young Lakshya Sen. "Once you are given what you've asked for. You Should have accountability. The players should put in a little more effort, and be a little more responsible and accountable," he added.

Lashing out at the former player, Ashwini Ponnappa in an Instagram story said, "Disappointing to see this, If a player wins everyone jumps on the bandwagon to take credit and if they lose its just the players fault ?! Why aren't coaches held responsible for lack of preparation and getting the player ready ?? They are the first ones to take credit for wins, why not take responsibility for their losses as well?!"

"At the end of the day winning takes team effort and losing is also the team's responsibility, can't suddenly push the player under the bus and blame it all on the player," she added.

Abhinav Bindra also came out in support of the athletes, who finished at the fourth place including Lakshya Sen and said that they have "proven themselves" coming so close to winning the medal.

"It is a sport and not everyone can win. We must stand by our athletes and appreciate their fight," he said adding that "it is important to recognise not just their effort but also the efforts of their families, coaches and support staff."

The Olympic gold medalist said that "there will always be a time to reassess but it is not now." Bindra was talking to RevSportz.