Indian Fast Bowler Mohammed Shami Retires From Test Cricket

Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami announced his retirement from Test cricket on Friday, ending a 13-year red-ball career in which he claimed 229 wickets across 64 matches.

The 36-year-old speedster made his international debut against the West Indies in 2013 and played his final red-ball fixture in the championship match against Australia in June 2023.

Shami captured 55 wickets in 50-over World Cups and remains available for domestic multi-day fixtures and limited-overs leagues, though he has not featured for the national side since early 2025.

"Let's end this 13-year journey here today," said Mohammed Shami, announcing his departure through a social media video published on the anniversary of his first appearance.

"I made my debut today, and today I am taking retirement," Shami said. "I am leaving this, but I will continue to play white-ball cricket, whether it is IPL or domestic."

Former India coach Ravi Shastri expressed disappointment regarding the retirement and questioned the team management's decisions during the final phase of the fast bowler's career.

"Without him, the fast-bowling unit would not have functioned," Shastri said.

Shastri added that the player deserved more opportunities in recent months, noting that he should have participated in Test matches over the past 12 months.

Former bowling coach Paras Mhambrey praised the exceptional seam position and relentless accuracy that terrorized opposing batting lineups throughout the generation.

"Very few bowlers in world cricket had that kind of upright seam presentation," Mhambrey said.

Mhambrey also noted that the athlete maintained a refreshingly uncomplicated approach to physical preparation without relying heavily on modern data analytics.

Selectors reportedly harbored persistent concerns regarding the veteran's fitness and ability to endure the physical demands of five-day matches.

Shami responded to those doubts by performing regularly for Bengal in domestic competitions while hoping for another opportunity to represent the national team.

Uncertainty remains over whether selectors will completely turn toward younger bowling options like Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj for upcoming overseas tours.