Shami stays focused on nation's glory amid 'Roza' controversy

Amid controversy surrounding his decision not to observe ‘Roza’ (fasting) during Ramzan, Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami is receiving overwhelming support for his commitment to playing for India.

The controversy began when Shami was seen drinking an energy drink during India’s semi-final clash against Australia, sparking questions about his fasting.

However, Shami’s cousin, Mumtaz, defended him, emphasising that the cricketer’s primary focus is on representing the country and called those blaming him for not observing 'Roza' “shameful.”

“He’s 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 said while speaking to ANI.

“Our message to Mohammed Shami is not to pay attention to these things and focus on preparing for the match on March 9,” he said.

Shami’s remarkable performance on the field speaks volumes about his dedication. With figures of 3/48, he played a key role in India’s victory, cementing his place as one of the tournament's top wicket-takers with eight wickets in four matches.

According to reports, All India Muslim Jamaat president Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi stoked a controversy by calling Shami “a criminal” for not observing 'Roza' during Ramzan.

However, some religious leaders also came to the defence of Indian cricketer, with Shia Cleric Maulana Yasoob Abbas calling the criticism an attempt at “cheap publicity,” while All India Muslim Personal Law Board member Maulana Khalid Rashid Farangi Mahli clarified that fasting is optional for those traveling or unwell, which applies to Shami on his tour. — with ANI