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'If Somebody Wants To Do Sajdah..'- Mohammed Shami Breaks Silence On Viral WC Celebration

image-lq4y8mktMohammed Shami has been recommended for the Arjuna Award(x.com)

In a remarkable display of skill and determination, India's pace sensation, Mohammed Shami, emerged as the leading wicket-taker in the ICC World Cup 2023, claiming an astonishing 24 scalps in just seven games. Despite sitting out the initial four matches, Shami's comeback was nothing short of spectacular.

Shami's Dominance and Celebration

In the crucial encounter against Sri Lanka on November 2, Shami's exceptional bowling performance of 5/18 played a pivotal role in India's resounding victory, crushing the Lankans by 302 runs. However, a controversial moment unfolded as Shami kneeled and touched the ground in celebration after dismissing Kasun Rajitha as his fifth wicket.

The Backlash & Shami's Response

This celebratory act sparked a social media storm, particularly from Pakistani media and fans, who accused Shami of abandoning the Sajdah, a significant prayer in Islam. The controversy took an ugly turn as some critics questioned Shami's commitment to his religious beliefs.

In a recent exclusive interview with Aaj Tak, Shami addressed the criticism head-on, emphasising his pride in being both an Indian and a Muslim. He firmly stated,

 "If somebody wants to do Sajdah, who will stop? I will not stop anybody from his religion, you will not stop anybody from my religion. If I have to do Sajdah, I will do it. What is the problem? I say it with pride that I am Muslim. I am an Indian, I say it with pride that I am an Indian."

He further dismissed the controversy, asserting, 

"If I had an issue, I wouldn't have lived in India. If I need to take anyone's permission to do Sajdah, why should I live here?" 

Clarifying the misunderstood celebration, Shami revealed, 

"I was tired of not getting a wicket despite beating the edge of the batter so many times. I was bowling at full tilt. So when I got my 5th wicket, I sank to the ground and kneeled. People gave a different meaning to it."

Shami's Future and Potential Arjuna Award

Mohammed Shami, who has been absent from competitive play since the World Cup final, is now in the spotlight for a potential accolade- the esteemed Arjuna Award. The 33-year-old pace maestro is anticipated to stage his comeback in the upcoming month, featuring in a two-match Test series against South Africa.