Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami, one of the finest pacers in the country’s history, has found himself at the center of a new controversy. A viral post on X (formerly Twitter) alleged that Shami’s official age is eight years younger than his real age, sparking debates across social media platforms.
The allegation: Shami’s age questioned
The controversy began when an X user posted an image claiming to show Shami’s driver’s license, which listed his birth year as 1982 instead of 1990, making him 42 years old instead of 34. The post accused Shami of age fraud, a serious offense in Indian sports. Although the tweet has since been removed for violating platform rules, screenshots of the alleged document continue to circulate online.
Shami’s illustrious career under scrutiny
Debuting in 2013 at 22, Shami has since become India’s 8th highest wicket-taker, celebrated for his ability to perform across all formats. The allegations, if proven, not only cast doubts on his career but also raise questions about BCCI’s age verification protocols.
Social media’s trial of Shami
This isn’t the first time Shami has faced public scrutiny. In the past, he endured domestic violence and match-fixing allegations, both of which were dismissed after investigations. Social media users have been quick to target Shami in the past, most notably during India’s 2021 T20 World Cup loss to Pakistan, where he was unfairly criticized for his performance.
Lack of evidence behind the claims
Despite the uproar, there is no confirmation of the document’s authenticity. The BCCI or any other official authority has yet to comment on the allegations, and fans have been urged not to jump to conclusions without verified evidence.
Age fraud: A serious sports offense
In India, age fraud is considered a violation of the core values of honesty and fair play in sports. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports outlines strict penalties for such offenses, emphasizing that it disadvantages genuine athletes.
What’s next for Shami?
While the allegations remain unverified, they highlight the challenges faced by public figures in the digital age. As discussions rage on social media, Shami’s supporters hope for a swift and transparent investigation to clear the air.
The cricketing world now waits for an official response, as Shami continues to focus on his responsibilities on the field.