By Zainab Shafiq 
Indian pacer Mohammad Shami has found himself at the centre of a controversy for not fasting as he was spotted consuming an energy drink during India’s Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final against Australia. The incident, occurring during the holy month of Ramzan, drew criticism from some religious figures, sparking debates on faith, duty, and professional sports.
Religious Criticism Over Mohammad Shami Not Fasting During Champions Trophy Matches
Among the critics was All India Muslim Jamaat President, Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, who called Shami a “criminal” for not observing ‘Roza’ (fasting). Speaking to ANI, Bareilvi remarked,
“By not keeping Roza, he has committed a crime. In the eyes of Shariat, he is a criminal. He will have to answer to God.”
He further emphasized that fasting is a compulsory duty in Islam, and any healthy individual who fails to observe it is guilty of wrongdoing.
Harbhajan Singh Comes to Shami’s Defense
Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh has stepped in to defend Shami, asserting that sports and religion should not be mixed. In an interview with India Today, Harbhajan shared his perspective, stating:
“I think sports should be treated separately. People expecting Shami or Rohit Sharma or any cricketer to follow a certain religious practice while playing is not fair.”
Highlighting the intense physical demands of the sport, Harbhajan added that proper hydration is essential for athletes competing in high temperatures.
“If you don’t keep yourself hydrated, you might collapse. With the kind of heat they are playing in, they need to drink water. The body needs fuel.”
He further downplayed the criticism, saying that such opinions hold little weight in the larger scheme of things and Shami should not be bothered by them.
Shami’s Coach Urges Focus on the Game
Adding to the defence, Shami’s childhood coach, Badaruddin Siddiqui, also dismissed the controversy, urging the cricketer to remain focused on the upcoming Champions Trophy final.
“Shami has done nothing wrong. He is playing for his country, and that should be the priority. Personal matters can wait, but national duty comes first. People should support the team instead of making unnecessary comments,” Siddiqui told ANI.
With India set to face New Zealand in the final, the team will be hoping to put all distractions aside and aim for glory on March 9 in Dubai.