Mumbai: Veteran lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar has come out in strong defence of Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami, who recently faced unnecessary criticism for drinking water during a match while fasting for Ramadan.

The controversy erupted during the semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 between India and Australia, held in Dubai under sweltering heat.

Shami, who was fasting for Ramadan, briefly paused to hydrate himself—a routine action for any player under extreme weather conditions.

However, some social media users targeted him, questioning why he drank water while observing Roza.

Reacting sharply to the backlash, Akhtar took to X (formerly Twitter) to denounce the critics.

He wrote, "Shami saheb, don’t give a damn to those reactionary bigoted idiots who have any problem with your drinking water in a burning afternoon at a cricket field in Dubai. It is none of their business. You are one of the great Indian teams making us all proud. My best wishes to you and our whole team."

The celebrated fast bowler, known for his remarkable performances in ICC tournaments, has chosen to stay silent on the matter and instead remained focused on India's preparation for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 final against New Zealand.

This isn't the first time Javed Akhtar has spoken out against divisive narratives. Recently, he had praised Virat Kohli for his stellar match-winning innings against Australia, calling him the "strongest pillar" of Indian cricket.

However, a social media user attempted to twist his compliment by falsely accusing him of fat-shaming Indian captain Rohit Sharma.

The troll wrote, "If Virat is the strongest pillar then who is Rohit Sharma? Heaviest pillar? Shame on you Javed saab for fat-shaming the Indian captain."

Responding with his characteristic bluntness, Akhtar hit back, saying, "Shut up you cockroach. I have great respect for Rohit Sharma and all the great Indian cricketers of Test history. What kind of a neech and pathetic liar you are that you are claiming that I have ever said a word against the dignity of a great player like Rohit. Kabhi socho tum itnay ghatia aur ganday aadmi kyon ho."

While the controversy surrounding Shami's hydration break continues to spark debates online, Akhtar's unflinching support for the cricketer has resonated with many, highlighting the unnecessary scrutiny athletes often face.