Mohammed Shami committed sin by not fasting: Barelvi cleric

Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi criticizes Mohammed Shami for not fasting during Ramzan, sparking controversy in India.

The national president of the All India Muslim Jamaat, Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi, said on Thursday (March 6, 2025) that Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami has committed a sin by not fasting during the Islamic holy month of Ramzan.

"In the eyes of Shariat, he is a criminal, he should not have done this at all," the Barelvi cleric said.

In a video, Shahabuddin said Shami was seen drinking something from a bottle on the field during a match against Australia on Tuesday.

He advised Shami to follow the rules of Shariat. "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," Mr. Razvi said.

"Playing cricket is not bad, but Mohammed Shami should fulfil his religious responsibilities. I advise Shami to follow the rules of Sharia and be responsible towards his religion," he added.

Reacting to the controversy, Maulana Khalid Rashid Farangi Mahli, executive member of All India Muslim Personal Law Board said, “It is compulsory for all Muslims to observe Roza, especially in the month of Ramazan. However, Allah has clearly mentioned in the Quran that if a person is on a journey or not well, 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 a right to raise a finger on him.”

Shami is in Dubai these days. He is part of the Indian squad for the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy.