Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed, who recently attracted attention for her comments on India’s captain Rohit Sharma, has now addressed the controversy surrounding fast bowler Mohammed Shami. The cricketer faced criticism after visuals of him drinking an energy drink during India’s semi-final match against Australia went viral on social media. Some users questioned why he was not observing the fast during the holy month of Ramzan.
The controversy escalated when Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, president of the All India Muslim Jamaat, made a statement labeling Shami a “criminal” for not fasting. He emphasised that fasting is a fundamental duty in Islam and those who fail to observe it without valid reasons are considered to be at fault.
Defending Mohammed Shami, Shama Mohamed pointed out that, according to Islamic principles, individuals who are traveling are not required to fast. She highlighted that Mohammed Shami was away from home and engaged in a physically demanding sport, where hydration is essential. She also noted that Islam prioritises good deeds and is a religion rooted in scientific reasoning.
Adding to the defense, Maulana Khalid Rashid Firangi Mahali, a member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, reinforced that fasting is indeed obligatory in Islam. However, he clarified that the Quran explicitly grants exemptions for those who are traveling or unwell. Given that Mohammed Shami was on an international tour, he had the right to refrain from fasting without facing criticism.
Amid this debate, Mohammed Shami continues to focus on his game as India prepares for their Champions Trophy final against New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday. The 34 years old pacer remains a key player in the team’s campaign despite the ongoing controversy off the field.
