Veteran Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami has officially retired from Test cricket. In a career spanning 64 appearances for India, the 36-year-old seamer secured 229 wickets at an average of 27.71, recording six five-wicket hauls along the way. His final outing for India in the red-ball format took place during the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval.
Shami announced his departure through a social media post on Friday, November 6, stating, “Today, with a heavy heart and countless beautiful memories, I am taking the decision to retire from Test cricket.” He expressed gratitude toward his teammates, coaches, family members, and the millions of Indian fans who maintained their support throughout his career, through both challenging and prosperous times.
The pacer’s journey began 13 years ago to the day, as he made his debut against the West Indies at Eden Gardens. He made an immediate impact, claiming a match haul of 9 for 118, which remains the best performance of his career. Known for his lethal ability to extract reverse swing in sub-continental conditions, Shami became a cornerstone of India’s bowling attack abroad, notably securing four of his six five-wicket hauls on tours of Australia and South Africa. Renowned for using reverse swing to great effect in the sub-continent, Shami quickly established himself as a key member of India’s bowling attack in overseas conditions as well.
Despite enduring various injury setbacks, Shami frequently fought his way back into the national setup. Following an impressive performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup, he dealt with ankle and knee complications that kept him sidelined for an extended period. Although he returned to competitive cricket in the T20 format in January 2025 and was named to the Champions Trophy squad, he has not represented the national team since the final against New Zealand. After a memorable outing in the home ODI World Cup in 2023, Shami underwent ankle surgery and also suffered from knee-related issues that kept him out of the national side for a considerable period of time.
Shami continues to maintain his presence in domestic circuits, representing Bengal in the ongoing Ranji Trophy season and participating in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 squad. He finishes his Test career as the 12th highest wicket-taker for India in the format and the sixth most successful among pacers. Reflecting on his journey, Shami noted, “I am bidding farewell to the white kit, but never to the memories associated with it. When I first wore the India Test jersey, I had just one dream, to achieve something for my country. Even though I have bowled my last ball in Test cricket, I will always carry the pride of playing for India in my heart.” It has been a very special part of my life, test cricket isn’t just a format for me.
