India fast bowler Mohammed Shami has come out in support of teammate Virat Kohli and actor Anushka Sharma, responding to criticism surrounding the couple’s frequent visits to Vrindavan for spiritual guidance.
Speaking in an interview with Times Now Navbharat, Shami said Kohli’s spiritual practices are deeply personal and should not become the subject of public judgment. His remarks come after the former India captain and Anushka Sharma were once again seen visiting spiritual leader Premanand Govind Sharan Maharaj following India’s recently concluded One Day International (ODI) series against England.
Shami: Kohli’s Faith Is Built on Discipline
Shami dismissed suggestions that Kohli’s interest in spirituality is a recent development, describing the star batter as someone who has always been disciplined and committed to his personal beliefs.
“It’s a good thing. This isn’t something that has happened suddenly. He is very passionate, is particular about what he believes in and makes time for it with proper discipline,” Shami said during the interview.
According to the experienced pacer, every individual has the right to follow their own beliefs without facing unnecessary criticism.
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Add Hunterfly on Google‘No One Should Object to Someone’s Faith’
The 35-year-old cricketer stressed that personal faith is a private matter and questioned why anyone should object to another person’s spiritual choices.
“As far as Maharaj is concerned, I don’t think anyone needs to point fingers or raise objections. If you believe in something, you should give it priority too.”
Shami’s comments underline the importance of respecting personal beliefs, regardless of an individual’s public profile.
Responds to Speculation About Anushka Sharma
The Indian pacer also addressed social media speculation suggesting that Anushka Sharma played a role in Virat Kohli’s spiritual journey.
Rejecting the criticism, Shami said that even if partners influence each other in matters of faith, it remains their personal decision.
“If they are a couple and even if she has encouraged him, what problem does anyone have? I don’t understand.”
His remarks called for greater respect for personal relationships and individual choices.
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Add Hunterfly on GoogleA Friendship Built on Mutual Support
Shami’s defence of Kohli reflects the strong bond the two senior Indian cricketers have shared over the years.
In 2021, after Shami faced abusive comments on social media following India’s T20 World Cup match against Pakistan, Virat Kohli publicly supported his teammate and condemned the online attacks, describing such criticism as unacceptable.
The latest comments from Shami have been viewed by many fans as another example of that mutual respect.
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Add Hunterfly on GoogleVirat Kohli’s Recent Form
On the field, Kohli recently delivered another consistent performance during India’s ODI series against England.
Series Performance
- Matches: 3
- Runs: 144
- Average: 48.00
- Half-centuries: 2
The experienced batter is expected to return to international action during India’s upcoming bilateral series against the West Indies, subject to the official schedule announced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Shami Eyes National Team Return
Meanwhile, Mohammed Shami continues working towards a return to international cricket.
The veteran fast bowler has been maintaining his fitness while delivering strong performances in domestic competitions. With India’s pace attack being managed carefully, selectors have indicated that workload management will remain an important factor in future squad selections.
Shami remains one of India’s most experienced fast bowlers and continues to be part of discussions surrounding the national team’s pace-bowling plans.
Why the Remarks Have Drawn Attention
Public interest in Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma’s visits to Vrindavan has remained high due to the couple’s regular appearances at the ashram of Premanand Govind Sharan Maharaj.
Shami’s comments add the perspective of a teammate who believes an athlete’s spiritual practices should be viewed as a personal matter rather than a topic for public scrutiny.
