Mohammed Shami opting to not fast in Ramadan for playing Champions Trophy semifinal has fans lauding him – “Country over anything”

Mohammed Shami opted against fasting in the month of Ramadan, to play for the Indian team at the Champions Trophy, leaving fans stunned.

Mohammed Shami opting to not fast in Ramadan for playing Champions Trophy semifinal has fans lauding him – “Country over anything”

Mohammed Shami opted against fasting during Ramadan, to play for India in the Champions Trophy. (via Hindustan Times)

Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has once again come into the limelight, after the 34-year-old opted against fasting, despite the start of the holy month of Ramadan. The pacer did not fast, while playing against Australia in the Champions Trophy semi-final.

Mohammed Shami was a part of India’s XI against Australia, and replicated his presence in the side with a stellar three-wicket haul against the Kangaroos. The 34-year-old pacer took the all-important wicket of Steve Smith, who top-scored for the Aussies with 73 runs off 96 balls. He also scalped the wickets of Coopper Connolly and Nathan Ellis, while giving away just 48 runs in his 10-over spell.

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In the humid temperatures of the Dubai International Stadium, Shami opted against fasting during the semi-final encounter. His decision did spark debate among a section of fans, who pointed to the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan. Muslims generally observe (Roza) fast during this 30-day period, and the practice prohibits drinking and eating anything throughout the day, until sunset.

Being India’s strike bowler in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami prioritized playing for India over his religious beliefs. The 34-year-old was seen sipping energy drinks during the match, something that however, did not go down well with a conservative section of fans. Many even reflected upon South African legend Hashim Amla‘s brilliant innings from 2012, while fasting for Ramadan.

Nonetheless, Mohammed Shami has remained important for India throughout the Champions Trophy, despite having most recently returned from a year-long injury. He has taken eight wickets in four matches in the CT, and remains on top of the charts for the most scalps.

Fans laud Mohammed Shami for his commitment to India cricket over fasting during Ramadan

Indian cricket fans and social media users responded to viral claims that Mohammed Shami has not been fasting during the team’s semi-final encounter against Australia, despite it being the month of Ramadan. Fans lauded the 34-year-old’s commitment to the Indian cricket team.

Mohammed Shami fans
Fans praised Mohammed Salah for his dedication to the Indian national team. (via X)

Some fans praised Shami for prioritizing his country over his personal observances, while a few others lashed out at his critics for mixing religion with cricket. Fans pointed to the necessity of players keeping fit and hydrated during matches. Here are some of the reactions:

Mohammed Shami remains an important player for the Indian side. Despite the criticism, he is set to keep his place in the XI, with India having made it through to the final of the 2025 Champions Trophy. India will either face South Africa or New Zealand.