Cricket News

Anurag Thakur slams trolls for targetting Mohammed Shami over his Dussehra Wish on social media

Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Anurag Thakur, has come out in support of Mohammed Shami after the latter was trolled for his Dussehra wish to the nation on October 5. The Indian fast bowler had taken to social media and wished his fans and followers on the day of the festival.

Shami was heavily trolled for his post as people began questioning him on celebrating Dussehra. His religion was also brought into the picture with some even asking why he had posted greetings on a Hindu festival.

“On the happy occasion of Dussehra, I pray that Lord Ram fills your life with lots of happiness, prosperity, and success. Happy Dussehra to you and your family,” Shami wrote on social media, sharing a photo of Lord Ram.

On the happy occasion of Dussehra, I pray that Lord Ram fills your life with lots of happiness, prosperity, and success. Happy Dussehra to you and your family. #mdshami11 #Dussehra pic.twitter.com/wsFk7M1Gj5

— 𝕸𝖔𝖍𝖆𝖒𝖒𝖆𝖉 𝖘𝖍𝖆𝖒𝖎 (@MdShami11) October 5, 2022

Stating that there was nothing wrong with the fast bowler celebrating Dussehra, Anurag Thakur said that it’s important to come together as a nation when celebrating festivals. The Sports Minister also highlighted that every Indian cricketer celebrated the festival earlier in the month.

“Dussehra is a festival which is celebrated by everyone. Indian cricketers are celebrating the festival too. What is the issue if Mohammed Shami also celebrated it? Those who are opposing it, are the ones who want to divide the country. But we need to keep everyone together as a nation and celebrate all festivals,” Anurag Thakur said.

Notably, it’s not the first time Mohammed Shami is being trolled on social media. He was also targeted after India lost to Pakistan in the 20-20 World Cup match last year. Fellow cricketers, including former captain Virat Kohli, stood strong with his teammate, slamming the hate he received on social media.

The 32-year-old is expected to be included in the squad for the 20-20 World Cup as a replacement for Jasprit Bumrah. Shami was included in the reserve list for the mega tournament but Bumrah’s unavailability means the senior pacer is the frontrunner to replace the Indian pace spearhead.

The Bengal seamer was named in the T20I squads for the recent home series against South Africa and Australia but was ruled out of the series after he contracted Covid-19.