WATCH: Did Mohammed Shami abstain from ‘sajda’?

Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami was apparently seen abstaining from making a “sajda” (prostrating) after a splendid five-wicket haul in the match against Sri Lanka at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on Wednesday.

The pacer is having a great outing this World Cup with a gain of 14 wickets in just three matches since he joined the squad.

Today, the five wicket haul by Shami played a crucial role in India's resounding 302-run in the 33rd match of the World Cup, which landed the side into the semi-finals.

However, what caught everyone's attention was Shami's apparent move to avoid prostration despite the overwhelming joy of achieving the feat. He was seen reverently bowing down to express gratitude to God, but stopped midway and refrained from placing his head on the ground, going back to the sitting position.

Social media users were swift to notice and expressed the view that Shami may have refrained from Sajda due to the knowledge that he represents a country with a history of Islamophobia events.

It's worth recalling that Shami faced online abuse following India's defeat to Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2021. Numerous derogatory messages were directed at Shami on his social media accounts, labelling him a "traitor" and calling for his exclusion from the Indian team.

Then Indian captain Virat Kohli publicly supported Shami, stating, "To me attacking someone over their religion is the most, I would say, pathetic thing that a human being can do."

Meanwhile, India's triumph over Sri Lanka propelled them to the top of the points table and secured their spot in the semi-finals. Their next challenge awaits as they face South Africa at the Eden Gardens on Sunday.

In a remarkable feat, Mohammed Shami became India's highest wicket-taker in Men's Cricket World Cups, achieving this milestone in just his 14th appearance. He finished with impressive figures of 5/18 from five overs, significantly contributing to the team's success.