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Indian skipper Virat Kohli has come out in support of Mohammed Shami, saying that the experienced seamer has won many matches for the country and the hate crime on social media would have no effect on the team.
Social media trolls had linked Shami's performance to his religion after India lost to Pakistan by 10 wickets in their opening match of the World T20 on Sunday. India lost the contest by 10 wickets, with Shami emerging as the most expensive bowler on the night, leaking 43 runs in 3.5 overs.
Kohli hit out at the social media trolls, describing them as "spineless" people who target a player for their source of entertainment. Underlining Shami's passion for the sport, He also said that targeting someone over his religion is a "pathetic" thing to do.
"We're playing on the field, we're not a bunch of spineless people on social media. This has become a source of entertainment for some people which is very sad. All this drama created on the outside is based on people's frustrations," said Kohli on the eve of New Zealand clash.
"Attacking someone based on religion is the most pathetic thing one can do. I have never discriminated based on religion. Such people are just frustrated. If people don't see Shami's passion for the game, I don't want to waste my time on it," he added.
Kohli provides update on Hardik's injury
Kohli also said that all-rounder Hardik Pandya is "fine" for the New Zealand challenge, adding that Shardul Thakur will always be in the scheme of things. Hardik hasn't been able to roll his arms and contribute to the bowling attack since his acute lower-back injury in 2019. He is yet to bowl in the ongoing World T20.
"Hardik Pandya is fine. If you're talking about the blow on his shoulder, he's absolutely fine. Shardul Thakur is always in the scheme of things. He has great potential and always adds great value to the team.
"It can be important to have a sixth bowler. It's important to understand that the game situation dictates if you need a sixth bowler. We didn't need one in the Pakistan game," the 32-year-old further said.
Having endured a nightmare last Sunday against Pakistan, the Indian camp will look to notch up their first win of the tournament when they take on New Zealand in a 'do-or-die' encounter on October 31 (Sunday).
