A controversy has erupted in the Indian cricket scene after a prominent Muslim cleric, Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, criticized Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami for not observing the fast of Roza during the holy month of Ramadan.
The incident occurred during India’s semi-final match against Australia in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where Shami was seen consuming an energy drink on the field.
Background and Criticism
Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, President of the All India Muslim Jamaat, condemned Shami’s actions, stating that fasting during Ramadan is a compulsory duty in Islam.
He labeled Shami a “criminal” for not adhering to this religious obligation, emphasizing that if a healthy individual fails to observe Roza, they are considered to have committed a sin.
Razvi Bareilvi’s remarks sparked a heated debate, with many questioning the cleric’s stance on a personal religious choice.
He argued that Shami’s decision to drink during the match sent a wrong message to the public, as it appeared he was healthy enough to play but chose not to fast.
Defense and Support for Shami
Shami’s actions have been defended by various figures, including his cousin Mumtaz, who pointed out that many Pakistani players also do not observe Roza during matches.
Mumtaz described the criticism as shameful and urged Shami to focus on his upcoming matches.
Additionally, Congress leader Shama Mohamed supported Shami, highlighting that in Islam, fasting is not obligatory for those traveling or engaged in strenuous activities like sports.
She emphasized that Islam prioritizes deeds over rituals and that Shami’s situation allowed him to choose not to fast.
Shami’s childhood coach, Badaruddin Siddiqui, also defended him, stating that “country comes first” and that Shami’s decision was justified given the circumstances of the match.
Reactions from Religious Figures
The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) member, Maulana Khalid Rashid Farangi Mahli, clarified that since Shami was on tour, he had the option to not observe Roza.
Mahli emphasized that no one has the right to criticize Shami for his decision.
Shia cleric Maulana Yasoob Abbas dismissed Razvi Bareilvi’s comments as a publicity stunt, asserting that fasting is a personal choice rather than a compulsion.
Impact and Conclusion
The controversy highlights the challenges faced by Muslim athletes during Ramadan, particularly when their religious obligations conflict with professional duties.
While some view Shami’s decision as a personal choice, others see it as a religious transgression. The debate underscores the need for understanding and respect for individual religious practices in the context of professional sports.
As India prepares for the final match of the Champions Trophy, Shami’s performance remains crucial, and his focus on the game is being supported by fans.
The incident serves as a reminder of the complexities of balancing religious duties with professional responsibilities in modern sports.
