‘Shami is a star’, Rizwan backs India’s pacer after online abuse

Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan has come out in support of India’s fast-bowler Mohammad Shami after he was abused following the Men-in-Blues’ defeat against the Men-in-Greens during the International Cricket Council (ICC) T20 World Cup 2021.

The 29-year-old took to Twitter on Tuesday to express his support for the fast-bowler, calling him a star and one of the best in the world.

The kind of pressure, struggles & sacrifices a player has to go through for his country & his people is immeasurable. @MdShami11 is a star & indeed of the best bowlers in the world

Please respect your stars. This game should bring people together & not divide 'em #Shami #PAKvIND pic.twitter.com/3p70Ia8zxf

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— Mohammad Rizwan (@iMRizwanPak) October 26, 2021

The 31-year-old was the most expensive bowler for the losing team in Dubai on Sunday, conceding 43 runs in just 3.5 overs as Pakistan dominated the contest against the arch-rivals India and registered a convincing win by 10 wickets.

During the high-voltage game between the two nuclear-armed neighbours, none of India’s bowlers could trouble the opening pair of Babar Azam and Rizwan, as they put up an unbeaten opening stand of 152 runs.

However, it was only Shami who was specifically targeted by some fans due to his religion.

Some individuals wrote extremely derogatory remarks on the right-arm pacer’s Instagram post and even questioned his loyalty to the country.

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