'I'm Muslim, I'm Not Afraid Of Anyone' - Shami Opens Up On 'Sajdah' Controversy
Mohammad Shami [X.com]
Mohammad Shami had a stellar ICC World Cup 2023 campaign for India after being brought back into the playing XI following his initial absence. The experienced pacer unleashed his wrath at the opposition batters and bowled perhaps the best has done in his successful career to take 24 wickets in just 7 matches.
Even though Shami's spectacular run wasn't enough for India to regain the coveted crown, his individual brilliance earned him accolades and praise as well as the special 'Arjuna Award' in January. Currently out of the playing scene due to a heel injury, the 33-year-old recalled the only time it wasn't his exploits which were spoken of during the quadrennial event.
Speaking to India Today, Shami opened up on the 'Sajdah' controversy which was played out widely on social media during the India-Sri Lanka World Cup game in Mumbai. As the skiddy pacer bagged a fifer versus the hapless Lankan Lions, he was seen going down on his knees as if to do the gesture of gratitude towards 'Allah' as is practised in the Muslim faith but then refrained from it.
Shami Opens Up On 'Sajdah' Controversy
"There were people who were saying that I wanted to do Sajdah, but didn’t. Some people called out the country, others my caste. Jinke dimaag mai jo keeda tha wo bola (Whatever filth they had to mutter, they did). Rather than appreciating my bowling, people highlighted that controversy," Shami said bravely.
The incident occurred during the 18th over of the Sri Lankan collapse in the run-chase. As Shami got Kasun Rajitha edging the ball to the slip cordon, he was seen going down in delight and those watching expected him to do the Sajdah. However, the pacer explained he was down since he was tired amidst the scorching Mumbai heat.
"I was bowling a fifth over in a row, I think, and was bowling with effort beyond my ability. I was tired. The ball was beating the edge so often, so when I finally got that fifth wicket, I went down on my knees. Someone pushed me, so I moved forward a bit. That photo was widely circulated across social media. People thought I wanted to do Sajdah but didn’t. I’ve got only one advice for them, please stop such nuisance."
"I’m not afraid of anyone when it comes to this). I’m a Muslim, and I’ve said this before, I’m proud of being one. And I’m a proud Indian too. For me, the country comes first. If these things bother someone, I don’t care."
With his jaw-dropping tally, Shami also became India's leading wicket-taker in World Cup history, edging past Javagal Srinath and Zaheer Khan. The pacer has now taken 55 wickets in just 18 outings over the last three editions of the tournament.
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