Sat Mar 08 03:32:54 UTC 2025: ## Indian Cricketer Shami Faces Backlash for Not Fasting During Match
**Dubai, UAE** – Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami has become embroiled in controversy after being criticized for not observing Roza (fasting) during a recent ICC Champions Trophy match against Australia. A video surfaced online showing Shami consuming an energy drink during the game, which took place during the holy month of Ramzan.
This prompted Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi, national president of the All India Muslim Jamaat, to publicly condemn Shami, labeling him a “sinner” for his actions and calling for him to adhere to Sharia law. Razvi stated that intentionally not fasting is considered a sin in Islam.
However, Shami has received widespread support on social media, with many criticizing the religious condemnation of his actions. Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh urged against mixing religion and sports.
Renowned lyricist Javed Akhtar also voiced his support for Shami, tweeting: “Shami saheb, don’t give a damn to those reactionary bigoted idiots who have any problem with your drinking water in a burning afternoon at a cricket field in Dubai. It is none of their business. You are one of the great Indian team that is making us all proud.”
The incident highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the intersection of religious observance and professional sporting life.
First Piper 