The poet-lyricist stands in support of the Indian pacer after religious criticism, emphasizing that his commitment to the team matters most.
Javed Akhtar Defends Shami Over Roza Controversy, Calls Out ‘Reactionary Bigots’
Mumbai, March 8 – Poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar has come out in strong support of Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami, who was recently criticized by All India Muslim Jamaat President Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi for not observing Roza (fasting) during Ramzan.
The controversy erupted after Shami was seen drinking an energy drink on the field during India’s Champions Trophy 2025 match against Australia in Dubai. The cleric called him a “criminal” in the eyes of Shariat for failing to fast despite being in good health.
However, Javed Akhtar dismissed these remarks, advising Shami to ignore such regressive opinions.
“Shami saheb, don’t give a damn to those reactionary bigoted idiots who have any problem with your drinking water in a burning afternoon at a cricket field in Dubai. It is none of their business. You are one of the great Indian team that is making us all proud. My best wishes to you and our whole team,” Akhtar wrote on Twitter (X).
Shami’s Family Stands by Him, Calls Criticism ‘Shameful’
Mohammed Shami’s cousin, Mumtaz, also defended the pacer, emphasizing that he is playing for the nation, and such criticism is unfair.
“He is playing for the country. There are many Pakistani players who 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,” Mumtaz said.
Shami has been instrumental in India’s success at the Champions Trophy 2025, picking up 3/48 in 10 overs in the match against Australia, pushing him to second place in the tournament’s highest wicket-takers list with eight wickets in four matches at an average of 19.88.
Religious Leader Calls Shami ‘A Criminal’ for Not Fasting
The controversy began when Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi declared that Shami had committed a “crime” by not keeping Roza and consuming fluids on the field.
“By not keeping Roza, he has committed a crime. He should not do this. In the eyes of Shariat, he is a criminal. He will have to answer God,” the Maulana stated.
He further added:
“Roza is one of the compulsory duties in Islam. If any healthy man or woman doesn’t observe Roza, they will be a big criminal. A famous cricketer like Mohammed Shami drinking water during a match sends a wrong message to the people.“
Sport or Religious Obligation? The Debate Continues
The controversy has sparked a larger debate on whether professional athletes should be expected to fast while playing high-intensity matches.
✔ Many fans and analysts argue that sports professionals require hydration and nutrition to perform at their best.
✔ Others believe that religious obligations should not be enforced on individuals, particularly when representing their country in international sports.
The Indian cricket fraternity has largely remained silent on the issue, but Javed Akhtar’s strong words of support have resonated with many fans, who see the criticism of Shami as unwarranted and regressive.
What’s Next for Shami?
Despite the controversy, Shami remains focused on India’s Champions Trophy 2025 campaign, with the next crucial match set for March 9.
With strong performances and unwavering support from his peers and well-wishers, the star pacer is determined to let his performance do the talking.
Tags: Mohammed Shami, Javed Akhtar, Champions Trophy 2025, Roza Controversy, India Cricket, Cricket and Religion, Ramzan, Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi, Indian Cricket News, Shami Wicket Record