Veteran lyricist Javed Akhtar has come out in strong support of cricketer Mohammed Shami, who faced backlash for not observing roza (fasting) during Ramadan while playing in the ICC Champions Trophy semi-final against Australia. The incident occurred on Tuesday in Dubai, when Shami, a key member of the Indian squad, was seen consuming an energy drink during the match. The moment went viral, drawing criticism from Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi, national president of the All India Muslim Jamaat, who labeled it a “sin” during the Islamic holy month.

Akhtar, known for his candid views, took to X on Friday to defend Shami, urging him to ignore the detractors. “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,” he wrote. Dismissing the criticism as unwarranted intrusion, Akhtar praised Shami’s stellar performance, adding, “You are one of the great Indian team that is making us all proud. My best wishes to you and our whole team.”

The controversy hasn’t dimmed India’s success. The Men in Blue clinched a victory over Australia, securing their spot as the first team in Sunday’s final against New Zealand. Aiming for their third Champions Trophy title (previously won in 2002 and 2013), Shami and the team remain focused. Akhtar’s words echo a broader sentiment of support, spotlighting Shami’s contribution over personal choices.