In what was a thrilling and memorable victory for India, the national cricket team triumphed over Australia in the semi-finals of the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025, securing their place in the final. The win, which brought much-needed relief to Indian fans still reeling from the heartbreak of losing the 2023 ICC World Cup final, was unfortunately overshadowed by a religious controversy involving star pacer Mohammed Shami.
The debate was sparked when a photo emerged of Shami sipping an energy drink following India’s victory on March 5, a day in which India advanced to the final of the prestigious tournament. The issue, however, was not about the match itself, but rather the fact that Shami’s actions were perceived by some as a violation of the fasting rituals called roza during Ramadan, a month of fasting and prayer observed by practicing Muslims around the world.
During the high-pressure match against Australia, Shami was spotted consuming an energy drink post-match. While seemingly harmless, this act became the center of a heated debate, as it occurred during Ramadan, a period where observant Muslims fast from dawn until sunset. For many, seeing Shami break his fast in public raised questions about his commitment to religious practices.
The controversy quickly gained momentum when several clerics from the region voiced their disapproval, accusing the cricketer of violating the sacred principles of Islam. The uproar reached its peak when clerics from Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, issued statements condemning Shami’s actions, calling him a “criminal” for failing to observe the fast.
A “Crime” Under Islamic Law
The most vocal of the critics was Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, the president of the All India Muslim Jamaat. In a strongly worded statement, Bareilvi labeled Shami’s act as a “crime” under Islamic law. “One of the compulsory duties in Islam is roza (fasting). If a healthy person does not observe it, they are a big criminal,” he declared. He also emphasised that, as a physically fit individual, Shami had no valid reason to skip fasting.
Bareilvi’s remarks went viral, sparking widespread reactions. While some agreed with his stance, others criticised his comments as divisive, particularly in the context of Shami’s professional commitments as a cricketer representing India.
BJP Leader Speaks Out
The controversy also spilled into the political arena, with BJP leader Madhavi Lata weighing in on the matter. Lata questioned the criticism of Shami, stating that a cricketer’s primary responsibility is to prepare himself to represent India. “When someone is showing the way and fulfilling their duty toward the country, why does Maulana have an objection to that?” Lata remarked.
She further stated that Allah would be pleased that Shami was playing for the nation, and questioned why Maulana was even watching cricket during Ramadan. “During Ramadan, one should stay away from entertainment,” she added. Lata also raised broader questions about the Muslim community’s contribution to India, pointing out the sacrifices of Muslim soldiers fighting for the nation.
Many Speak Out
In response to the criticism, many rallied to Shami’s defense, citing provisions within Islamic teachings that allow exemptions from fasting under specific circumstances, including travel or physical exertion. Maulana Khalid Rashid Firangi Mahali, a member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), argued that Islam grants exemptions for individuals who are engaged in physically demanding tasks, such as athletes like Shami.
“In Islam, fasting is obligatory, but the Quran allows for exceptions, particularly for those who are traveling or in physically strenuous situations. Shami, as part of an international tour, has the option to skip fasting. No one has the right to criticize him for his decision,” Firangi Mahali said.
Shami’s Relatives Weigh In
As the controversy continued to intensify, Shami’s family members also voiced their support for the cricketer. His uncle, Mumtaz, expressed disappointment over the attacks on his nephew, stating that Shami was doing his duty to the nation. “He is playing for the country. Many Pakistani players also don’t fast during matches, so this is nothing new. It is shameful that such accusations are being made against him,” Mumtaz said.
Cricketing Community’s Support for Shami
Beyond religious circles, the cricketing community also came to Shami’s defense. The Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) issued a statement in support of the player, with MCA president Rohit Pawar emphasizing Shami’s commitment to both his faith and his country. “Shami respects Islam, but his duty to represent India comes first. If drinking an energy drink helps him perform better in a crucial tournament, there is nothing wrong with it,” Pawar said.
The controversy over Mohammed Shami’s decision to break his fast during Ramadan or not keeping it at all has sparked a heated debate involving religious leaders, the cricketing community, and political figures. While some see his actions as a violation of religious duties, others argue that his professional obligations as an athlete justify his choice.
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