Muslim Cleric Slams Mohammed Shami For Not Fasting During Ramzan, Drinking Juice: 'He Is A Criminal'

Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami has faced criticism from a Muslim cleric for not observing a fast during India's semi-final match against Australia. The fixture took place during the holy month of Ramadan, a period of fasting observed by Muslims.

Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi denounced Shami as a "criminal" for skipping the fast, asserting that it was a sin and contrary to religious principles.

In a video statement, Bareilvi remarked, "In Islam, fasting is a duty... If someone deliberately skips the fast, they are sinners. Cricketer Mohammed Shami also didn't observe a fast; he has committed a sin. He is a criminal."

His comments sparked debate among religious figures, with some voicing their displeasure over Shami drinking juice during the match.

Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, President of the All India Muslim Jamaat, strongly criticised Shami's actions.

"One of the compulsory duties is 'roza' (fasting). If any healthy man or woman doesn't observe 'roza', they will be a big criminal... A famous cricket personality of India, Mohammed Shami, had water or some other beverage during a match. People were watching him. If he is playing, it means he is healthy. In such a condition, he did not observe 'roza' and even had water... This sends a wrong message among people. By not keeping 'roza', he has committed a crime. He should not do this. He is a criminal. He will have to answer God," he stated.

Mohammed Shami's coach, Mohammed Badruddin, defended the cricketer against the criticism from Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, insisting that Shami was not at fault and had the support of the nation.

Emphasising patriotism, he urged clerics to prioritise the country above all else, saying, "Desh ke aage kuch nahi (Nothing comes before the nation)."

NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar also responded to the controversy, standing by Mohammed Shami and asserting that religion should not be associated with sports.

He lauded Shami as a committed player who had led India to victory on multiple occasions, stating that if Shami believed fasting could even slightly impact his performance, "he wouldn't be able to sleep."

Pawar added, "He is a hardcore Indian who has made the team win many times. Religion should not be brought up in sports, and if you ask any Muslim today, they will say they are proud of Mohammed Shami."

India secured a four-wicket victory over Australia to advance to the final of the Champions Trophy. After winning the toss, Australia elected to bat first, setting a total of 264.

Led by Shami, India's bowling attack effectively restricted Australia, with the pace bowler taking three wickets in his allotted 10 overs, conceding just 48 runs.

Notably, this controversy is not the first to arise during the Champions Trophy. Previously, Congress national spokesperson Shama Mohammed had criticised Indian captain Rohit Sharma, describing him as "too fat for a sportsman" and "the most unimpressive" captain following India's match against New Zealand.