Javed Akhtar sends message to Mohammed Shami following Roza row in Champions Trophy: 'Saheb, don't give a...'

Javed Akhtar comes in support of Mohammed Shami following controversy. (Photo: X)

Indian screenwriter and lyricist Javen Akhtar has come out in support for Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami after Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi (President of All India Muslim Jamaat) called him a 'criminal' for not fasting during Ramzan. Akhtar asked Shami to ignore the people trying to crisitise him for drinking water during a Champions Trophy match in Dubai. Shami found himself in middle of the controversy after the fast-bowler was seen drinking an energy drink during a clash between India and Australia in Dubai.

Taking to X (formerly known as Twitter), Akhtar wrote: "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."

Shami saheb , dont 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
Javed Akhtar (@Javedakhtarjadu) March 7, 2025

What did Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi say about Shami?

"By not keeping 'Roza' he (Mohammed Shami) has committed a crime. He should not do this. In the eyes of Shariat, he is a criminal. He will have to answer God," he said.

Also Read - 'I don't think Rohit bhai...': Shubman Gill says no discussion on Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli retirement in dressing room

"One of the compulsory duties is 'Roza' (fasting)... If any healthy man or woman doesn't observe 'Roza', they will be a big criminal. A famous cricket personality of India, Mohammed Shami had water or some other beverage during a match," Maulana Bareilvi added.

Team India have completed their final practice session ahead of the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand in Dubai.

Also Read - IND predicted XI vs NZ, Champions Trophy final: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli eye second ICC crown in less than a year

"People were watching him. If he is playing, it means he is healthy. In such a condition, he did not observe 'Roza' and even had water... This sends a wrong message among people," he further stated.

Shami played a crucial role in India's victory, delivering a match-winning performance in the ICC Champions Trophy semifinal against Australia. He took 3 wickets for 48 runs in his 10-over spell. His impressive form has elevated him to the second spot among the tournament's highest wicket-takers, with eight wickets in four matches at an average of 19.88.