India pacer Mohammad Shami on Thursday (March 6) was attacked by a Muslim cleric for not observing fast during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final clash against Australia in Dubai a couple of days ago.

The match took place in the ongoing holy month of Ramzan, a period of fasting observed by the followers of Islam religion.

Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi labelled Shami as a "criminal" for skipping the fast, stating that it was a sin and went against religious principles.

In a video statement, Bareilvi said, "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. 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. 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."

His remarks triggered a debate among the religious figures, with some defending Shami for consuming an energy drink during the match.

Maulana Khalid Rashid Farangi Mahli, a scholar and executive member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, stated that the cricketer was on a tour and there are concessions for people travelling.

"Allah has clearly mentioned in the Quran that if a person is on a journey or unwell, they have the option not to observe Roza. In the case of Mohammed Shami, he is on a tour, so he has the option not to observe Roza. Nobody has the right to question him," Khalid said.

Shami's family also stood by him, urging him to ignore distractions and focus on the upcoming Champions Trophy final.

"It is shameful that these things are happening," said Mumtaz, Shami's cousin. "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."

Shami returned with the figures of 3/48 (10 overs) in India’s four-wicket victory over Australia in the semi-final. The right-arm quick will look to carry his good form in the title clash against New Zealand on Sunday (March 9) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.