Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has strongly rebuffed baseless allegations on social media suggesting he refrained from performing 'Sajda' (Islamic prayer) after claiming a five-wicket haul against Sri Lanka in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. In response to the claims, Shami asserted his pride in being both Indian and Muslim, stating that no one would stop him from praying if he intended to do so. He emphasized that living in India is a choice he makes without any restrictions on his religious practices. Shami clarified that his gesture of kneeling and touching the ground after dismissing a batsman was a result of exhaustion from giving his all in the game. He criticized those who misinterpret such actions, stating they aim to create unnecessary controversy. Shami asserted that he will continue to express his faith proudly and without reservation.
Key Points:
1. Mohammed Shami, the senior Indian pacer, has responded to baseless allegations and trolls who claimed he refrained from performing 'Sajda' (a form of prayer) after taking a five-wicket haul against Sri Lanka in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.
2. Shami emerged as India's highest wicket-taker in the tournament, claiming three notable five-wicket hauls against New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and again versus New Zealand in the first semi-final.
3. Trolls on social media attempted to stir controversy by suggesting that Shami, a proud Indian and Muslim, had intended to offer a prayer on the field but refrained from doing so due to potential backlash.
4. Shami dismissed these allegations, asserting that as a proud Indian and Muslim, he would not be prevented from praying if he intended to do so during the match.
5. He stated, "If I want to do Sajda then who will stop me? I won’t stop anyone from another religion nor will they stop me."
6. Shami emphasized his identity as a Muslim and an Indian, expressing pride in both aspects of his identity.
7. Responding to the controversy, Shami clarified that his gesture of kneeling and touching the ground after dismissing Kasun Rajitha was a result of exhaustion from putting in tremendous effort during the game.
8. He explained that his intense effort during the match, coupled with the satisfaction of achieving a five-wicket haul, led to his emotional reaction on the field.
9. Shami criticized those who misinterpreted his actions, stating that such people only want to create a ruckus and have no other meaningful purpose.
10. The Indian pacer dismissed the baseless allegations and reiterated his commitment to both his religion and his country, emphasizing that no one could prevent him from expressing his faith.
(With Agency Inputs)
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