India, March 8 -- Mohammed Shami recently fell victim to criticism from a Muslim cleric for not fasting during the holy month of Ramzan. The India pacer was called a 'criminal and sinner' for following the practice, as India took on Australia in the semi-final of the ongoing Champions Trophy during the period.

Ramzan is a period of fasting observed by Muslims. The Muslim cleric, Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, labelled Shami a 'criminal' for not fasting and said that it was a sin.

Speaking to India Today, India legend Harbhajan Singh rushed to Shami's defence and asked not to mix religion with the pacer's sporting commitments.

"I think I just want to say that this is my personal view-I might be wrong or right. Sports should be trea...