Senior India pacer Mohammad Shami was recently attacked by some Muslim clerics for not observing fast during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final match against Australia at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

The visual of Shami consuming an energy drink during the match, which took place in the holy month of Ramzan, became a topic of debate on social media.

It also prompted the national president of the All India Muslim Jamaat, Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi, to label Shami as a "criminal".

Since the controversy erupted, Shami has garnered a lot of support on social media. Legendary lyricist Javed Akhtar also extended his support while also offering a suggestion to the cricketer.

"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," Javed wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Earlier, Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi claimed that Shami’s act was a sin as it was against religious principles. He asked the fast bowler to follow the rules of Shariat.

"In the eyes of Shariat, he is a criminal, he should not have done this at all," Shahabuddin said in a video statement.

"It is the responsibility of all Muslims to follow the rules of Shariat. Fasting is obligatory in Islam. If a person does not keep a fast intentionally, he is considered a sinner according to Islamic law. Playing cricket is not bad, but Mohammad Shami should fulfil his religious responsibilities. I advise Shami to follow the rules of Sharia and be responsible towards his religion," he added.

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