'I stand behind Shami and Team India': Sachin Tendulkar reacts after India pacer faces online abuse

Shami, who was the most expensive bowler of the lot, giving away 43 runs in his 3.5 overs at an economy rate of above 11, was on the receiving end of online abuse after the big defeat.

India batting legend Sachin Tendulkar came out in support of Mohammed Shami after the India pacer faced online abuse following the 10-wicket defeat against Pakistan in their opening T20 World Cup game in Dubai on Sunday. After Pakistan skipper Babar Azam won the toss and elected to bowl, India put together 151/7 in 20 overs.

Sachin Tendulkar has come out in support of Mohammed Shami (AP/File)

Chasing 152, Pakistan openers Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan scored unbeaten fifties each as they finished off the chase on their own in 17.5 overs, winning the match by 10 wickets.

Shami, who was the most expensive bowler of the lot, giving away 43 runs in his 3.5 overs at an economy rate of above 11, was on the receiving end of online abuse after the big defeat.

“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 wrote in a tweet.

Apart from Sachin, several other former and current Indian cricketers defended the Indian pacer, including Harbhajan Singh, and Virender Sehwag.

India will play their second game of the tournament against New Zealand on Sunday.