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Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has found himself at the center of an unnecessary controversy after visuals of him sipping an energy drink during the Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal against Australia surfaced online. Since the match coincided with the holy month of Ramzan, where practicing Muslims observe fasting from dawn to dusk, some social media users trolled the bowler for allegedly skipping his fast to continue playing.
However, Shami’s cousin and childhood coach have strongly defended the Indian pacer, emphasizing that his priority was his duty towards the nation while still abiding by his beliefs.
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“Shameful That Such Things Are Being Said” – Shami’s Cousin
Shami’s cousin Mumtaz slammed the online criticism, pointing out that even cricketers from Pakistan, a country where Islam is the state religion, have opted out of fasting to focus on their professional commitments.
“He is playing for the country. There are many Pakistani players who have not kept ‘Roza’ and are playing matches, so this is nothing new. It is very shameful that such things are being said about him,” Mumtaz told ANI.
“We will tell Mohammed Shami not to pay attention to these things and prepare for the match on March 9.”
“People Have No Understanding of Islam” – Childhood Coach
Echoing a similar sentiment, Badruddin Siddiqui, Shami’s childhood coach, also expressed disappointment over the backlash. He questioned why people were targeting the pacer for fulfilling his responsibilities towards the country.
“I think those who are saying anything have no understanding of Islam. This child is playing for the country. He is not playing any local matches… If he is playing for the country, then what is the problem?” Siddiqui told PTI.
Also Check: Mohammad Shami Urges ICC to Reconsider Saliva Ban to Revive Reverse Swing
Shami’s Performance Speaks for Itself
Despite the unwarranted criticism, Shami has been one of India’s standout performers in the Champions Trophy so far. In the semifinal against Australia, he picked up three crucial wickets, dismissing:
- Cooper Connolly
- A well-set Steve Smith
- Nathan Ellis
With ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah missing the tournament, Shami has stepped up as India’s pace spearhead, claiming 8 wickets in the tournament so far – the second-highest in the competition.
With India set to face New Zealand in the Champions Trophy final on March 9, Shami’s form will be pivotal to India’s chances of lifting the trophy. While social media criticism continues, his family and mentors have urged him to stay focused on the bigger goal—bringing glory to the nation.
