ICC T20 World Cup: Fans question Shami’s loyalty after India’s defeat

Indian fans hurled abuses at fast bowler Mohammed Shami and questioned his loyalty with the team on his Instagram post after their team sustained their first ever defeat against Pakistan in a World Cup contest.

The right-arm pacer received severe backlash after he had a forgettable day in the field, where he conceded 43 runs in 3.5 overs.

None of the bowlers from the Blue team could get a wicket as Pakistan secured a 10-wicket win; however, it was mainly Shami who born the brunt.

A few screenshots were shared from the 31-year-old’s Instagram, where people posted derogatory comments and asked if he had taken money from Pakistan to bowl that badly.

However, seeing the situation getting out of hand, numerous fans and cricketers stood up in Shami’s support and “#IstandWithShami” started trending on social media.

Indian cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar also extended his support for the fast bowler, calling him a committed, world-class bowler.

“When we support Team India, we support every person who represents Team India,” Sachin Tendulkar wrote on Twitter. “Mohammed Shami is a committed, world-class bowler. He had an off day like any other sportsperson can have. I stand behind Shami & Team India.”

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When we support #TeamIndia, we support every person who represents Team India. @MdShami11 is a committed, world-class bowler. He had an off day like any other sportsperson can have.

I stand behind Shami & Team India.

— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) October 25, 2021

Ex-opening batter Virender Sehwag also showed his support for his former teammate and wants him to come back stronger in the next match.

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The online attack on Mohammad Shami is shocking and we stand by him. He is a champion and Anyone who wears the India cap has India in their hearts far more than any online mob. With you Shami. Agle match mein dikado jalwa.

— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) October 25, 2021

Another former fast bowler, Irfan Pathan, who himself is a Muslim, pointed out the difference that India as a country has seen over the years and called it to stop this ‘crap’.

Even I was part of #IndvsPak battles on the field where we have lost but never been told to go to Pakistan! I’m talking about 🇮🇳 of few years back. THIS CRAP NEEDS TO STOP. #Shami

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— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) October 25, 2021

India will play their second game of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021 on October 31 against the Black Caps at the Dubai International Stadium.