Islamic cleric Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi has described that Indian cricketer Mohammad Shami's daughter playing Holi, the Hindu festival of colours, was illegal and against Shariat.

He had earlier targeted Shami for not following Roza fast during the ongoing holy month of Ramzan while playing the Champions Trophy for the national team and said he had committed a sin.

He commented after Shami was seen drinking water during the Champions Trophy semi-final clash against Australia in Dubai.

He was quoted as saying by India Today: "She is a small girl If she plays Holi without understanding (it), then it is not a crime."

"If she is sensible and still plays Holi, then it will be considered against Shariat," he said.

"I have appealed to Shami and his family members Whatever is not in Shariat, do not let your children do it. Holi is a very big festival for Hindus but Muslims should avoid celebrating Holi. If someone celebrates Holi even after knowing Shariat, it is a crime," the cleric was quoted as saying.

Shami played a major part in India's recent Champions Trophy victory by beating New Zealand in the final last Sunday.