Mohammed Shami's 'Roza' Row: Cricket Community Rallies Around Indian Pacer Amid Ramzan Controversy

Mohammed Shami, the 34-year-old Indian pacer, was seen taking an energy drink during the semi-final clash against Australia at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday, sparking a controversy over his decision not to observe 'Roza' (fast) during the holy month of Ramzan. President of All India Muslim Jamaat, Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, stoked the controversy by calling Shami "a criminal" for not observing 'Roza' during Ramzan.

However, several prominent figures have come out in support of Shami, including Congress leader Shama Mohamed, who stated, "In Islam, there is a very important thing during Ramzan. When we are travelling, we don't need to fast (Roza), so Mohammed Shami is travelling and he's not at his own place. He's playing a sport where he can be very thirsty. Nobody insists that when you're playing a sport, you have to fast...It is your deeds which are very important. It (Islam) is a very scientific religion..." Maharashtra Cricket Association president Rohit Pawar also backed Shami, saying, "Mohammed Shami has given priority to the country, and that should be respected. Everyone's body type is different. If Shami is drinking energy drink during the match so that he can perform well, then there is nothing wrong in it."

The controversy surrounding Shami's decision not to observe 'Roza' has sparked a broader debate about the importance of prioritizing the country and the sport over personal religious obligations. While some have criticized Shami for not observing 'Roza', others have come out in support of the player, citing the importance of respecting individual choices and priorities. As the debate continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the cricket community has rallied around Shami, and the player remains focused on the upcoming matches. With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in full swing, the Indian cricket team is gearing up for the next challenge, and Shami's performance will be crucial to the team's success.