Badaruddin Siddiqui, childhood coach of Indian pacer Mohammed Shami, has defended the star bowler following controversial remarks by Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, President of All India Muslim Jamaat. Bareilvi criticized Shami for not observing ‘Roza’ during Ramzan.
Siddiqui stated that Shami was completely justified in drinking an energy drink during his match, emphasizing that ‘country comes first’. This comes after Bareilvi called Shami ‘a criminal’ for not fasting during Ramzan. The 34-year-old player was seen consuming an energy drink during the semi-final match against Australia in Dubai.
Speaking to ANI, Siddiqui defended Shami, saying that Shami was right and people should not pay attention to such comments. He urged focus on the final match, stating Shami had committed no crime and was prioritizing the country. Siddiqui requested everyone to support the team and avoid such remarks, adding that personal matters are secondary to national duty.
In his comments to ANI, Maulana Bareilvi had stated that Mohammed Shami committed a crime by not keeping ‘Roza’ and would have to answer to God in Shariat’s eyes. Bareilvi asserted that ‘Roza’ is a mandatory duty, and neglecting it makes one a criminal. He mentioned seeing Mohammed Shami drinking during a match.
Ramzan is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, a time for fasting from dawn to sunset, known as Roza, one of Islam’s five pillars, representing devotion, self-control, and spiritual reflection.
Maulana Khalid Rashid Farangi Mahli, a member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), also defended Shami. He stated that as Shami was playing, he had the option not to fast, and no one has the right to criticize him.
Mahli explained to ANI that while Roza is compulsory during Ramazan, the Quran allows exceptions for those traveling or unwell. He reiterated that Shami, being on tour, had the option not to observe Roza, and criticism is unwarranted.
Earlier, Mohammed Shami’s cousin, Mumtaz, also supported the cricketer, calling those blaming him for not keeping ‘Roza’ ‘shameful’. Mumtaz highlighted that Shami is playing for the country and noted that many Pakistani players also play without fasting. Mumtaz urged Shami to ignore the criticism and focus on his match.
Shami played a crucial role in India’s victory, taking 3 wickets for 48 runs in 10 overs and has risen to the second position among the highest wicket-takers in the mega event, with eight wickets in four matches at an average of 19.88.
