Indian cleric labels Shami a 'criminal' for not fasting during semi-final

Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami faced criticism from a Muslim cleric for not fasting during India's semi-final match against Australia on Tuesday. The game was played during the holy month of Ramzan, a time when most Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset.

Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi called Shami a "criminal" for skipping the fast, saying it was against religious teachings.

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

However, Maulana Khalid Rashid Farangi Mahli, a scholar and executive member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, defended Shami. He explained that Islam allows people to skip fasting while travelling.

"Allah has clearly mentioned in the Quran that if a person is on a journey or unwell, they have the option not to observe Roza. In the case of Mohammed Shami, he is on a tour, so he has the option not to observe Roza. Nobody has the right to question him," he firmly pointed out. 

Shami's family also supported him, urging him to focus on the upcoming Champions Trophy final. His cousin, Mumtaz, called the controversy unnecessary.

"He is playing for the country. Many Pakistani players 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. We will tell Mohammed Shami not to pay attention to these things and prepare for the match on March 9."

Shami's coach, Mohammed Badruddin, also defended him, saying he did nothing wrong and had the full support of the country. He advised clerics to prioritize the nation above all.

"Desh ke aage kuch nahin (Nothing comes before the nation)," he said.

NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar also reacted to the controversy, saying religion and sports should not be mixed. He praised Shami for being a dedicated player who has contributed to India's victories many times.

"If Shami felt fasting could even slightly affect his performance, he wouldn't be able to sleep. He is a hardcore Indian who has made the team win many times. Religion should not be brought into sports, and if you ask any Muslim today, they will say they are proud of Mohammed Shami," Pawar said.

Despite the controversy, Shami delivered a strong performance in the semi-final. Australia won the toss and batted first, scoring 264 runs. Led by Shami, the Indian bowling attack restricted them, with Shami taking three wickets in his 10-over spell, conceding only 48 runs. 

India chased the target and won the match by four wickets, securing their place in the Champions Trophy final.

India will now face New Zealand in the final on March 9 in Dubai.