'What's wrong with making sajda': Mohammad Shami opens up about on-field prostration controversy

Like every other Indian Muslim, Men in Blue's fast bowler Mohammad Shami also had his share of religious discrimination and disdain, living under the far-right Hindu nationalist government.

Being a Muslim, the pacer had once faced online ire following India's historic defeat to Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2021.

However, he got his honour back by becoming the top wicket-taker after taking 24 wickets at an astounding average of 10.70 in just seven matches in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.

Yet, he couldn't duck a controversy when he apparently seen abstaining from making a “sajda” (prostrating) as he celebrated a splendid five-wicket haul in the match against Sri Lanka in Mumbai.

He was seen reverently bowing down to express gratitude to God, but stopped midway and refrained from placing his head on the ground, going back to the sitting position.

The issue went viral on social media with the netizens coming up with different comments on the matter.

However, speaking to Indian journalist Vikrant Gupta at a recent event, Shami broke the silence on the issue and said that he is a proud Indian Muslim.

"No one could have stopped me if I wanted to perform sajda," he said, adding that he has never celebrated this way.

He asked what was wrong with him prostrating on the field.

"If I have to get someone's permission to make a sajda then why should I live in this country," he added.

It may be noted that some Indians made a big deal about Pakistani wicket-keeper batter Mohammad Rizwan praying on the field during the World Cup matches.