Harbhajan defends Mohammed Shami on fasting row

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World Cup-winning former spinner Harbhajan Singh has come to the defence of Mohammed Shami, backing his decision not to fast during India's Champions Trophy semi-final against Australia in Dubai on Mar 4.

Shami faced criticism from a Muslim cleric for not fasting during the holy month of Ramzan, with the fast bowler being labelled a "criminal and sinner" for not adhering to the practice.

Harbhajan said individuals have the right to express opinions and follow their religious beliefs, but they should not impose their views on others.

The legendary spinner pointed out that Shami might have collapsed if he had not taken fluids during the Champions Trophy match, which was played in hot and humid conditions at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

"I think I just want to say that this is my personal view-I might be wrong or right. Sports should be treated separately. People who feel religion is playing this role or that role, I think it's fine to kind of do your routine-what you do in your religion. But people expecting Shami to do this or Rohit Sharma to do this or any XYZ to do this or that during a certain period (is not fair)," Harbhajan said.