Sachin Tendulkar lends support to Indian speedster amid harsh criticism

Team India endured a hard time against Pakistan and suffered a humiliating 10-wicket triumph at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. This was the first game of both sides in the T20 World Cup 2021 and many backed India to cross the line. However, the Babar Azam-led side put up a clinical show and recorded an easy win. Pakistan’s win was also historic as they defeated India for the very first time in a World Cup event.

While Pakistan fans went on seventh heaven after the game, cricket lovers on the other side of bowlers were dejected. Many players also faced harsh criticism on social media. However, one Indian player who was at the receiving end of unfortunate trolling was pacer Mohammed Shami. Social media users targeted him over his religion, accusing that the fast bowler has underperformed.

Shami, who has been a vital cog of India’s bowling attack over the years, struggled in the high-voltage clash. With the dew factor coming in, the fast bowler couldn’t bowl as per his liking and was taken to cleaners. In 3.5 overs, he conceded 43 runs without taking any wicket. While many experts and analyst dissected what went for Shami, a section of disgruntled netizens dragged his religion over his performance.

Mohammed Shami is a world-class bowler: Sachin Tendulkar

Some even asked him to go to Pakistan. Needless to mention, these claims didn’t go down well with cricket stars and they came out in support of Shami. Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar also took to Twitter and slammed those fans. Calling the speedster a world-class bowler, Tendulkar said he stands behind the pacer and the entire Indian team.

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

It has to be noted that Shami was in exceptional form for Punjab Kings in the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Hence, the team management would want him to unleash his best show in the upcoming clashes. Meanwhile, India’s next game is against New Zealand on October 31.