Mohammed Shami Retires from Test Cricket After 13 Years, Ends Career with 229 Wickets

Mohammed Shami has announced his retirement from Test cricket, bringing the curtain down on a 13-year career in the longest format. In a fitting coincidence, the 36-year-old chose November 6 to make the announcement, exactly 13 years after making his Test debut against the West Indies at Eden Gardens in 2013.

Shami shared an emotional message on social media on Friday, reflecting on his journey in the white jersey and the memories he would carry forward. However, his decision does not mark the end of his international career. The fast bowler remains available for limited-overs cricket and is also open to playing first-class matches to maintain his fitness.

"I'm taking my leave from the white jersey, but never from the memories attached to it," Shami wrote.

Mohammed Shami's Test Career Ends with 229 Wickets

Shami represented India in 64 Test matches, claiming 229 wickets at an average of 27.71. His record includes six five-wicket hauls, with his best bowling figures of 6/56 coming against England.

Known for his pace, reverse swing and ability to trouble batters with the old ball, Shami became an important part of India's pace attack across different conditions. He played crucial roles in India's overseas campaigns in Australia, England and South Africa.

However, injuries repeatedly interrupted his career, forcing him to undergo rehabilitation and fight his way back into the team.

His last Test appearance came in the World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval in June 2023.

Absence from India A Squad Raised Questions Over Test Future

Speculation about Shami's future in Test cricket had intensified after he was left out of the India A squad for the three four-day matches scheduled ahead of India's upcoming Test series in New Zealand.

Despite continuing to perform in domestic cricket, a return to the national Test side appeared increasingly unlikely. Shami recently claimed five wickets in Bengal's Ranji Trophy opener against Delhi in Kalyani, demonstrating that he remained effective at the domestic level.

There were also expectations that changes in the selection committee following Ajit Agarkar's exit could create an opportunity for his comeback. However, the new committee led by Pragyan Ojha did not include him in its plans for the New Zealand tour.

'I Am Still at My Peak', Shami Had Said

Shami had recently dismissed suggestions that age was affecting his fitness. Speaking during Bengal's Ranji Trophy match against Services around two weeks ago, he insisted that he remained at his best.

"I am still at my peak. There is no point beating around the bush. However I am, I am at my peak," he had said.

Despite that confidence, his absence from India's immediate Test plans appears to have influenced the timing of his decision.

'Every Injury and Every Comeback Taught Me Something'

In his retirement message, Shami reflected on the emotions and challenges associated with representing India in Test cricket.

"When I first wore India's Test jersey, it was just a dream — to do something for my country. Every wicket after that, every struggle, every injury, and every comeback taught me something or the other," he wrote.

Describing Test cricket as a special part of his life, he added: "Test cricket hasn't been just a format for me; it's been an incredibly special part of my life. Today, with a heavy heart and countless beautiful memories, I'm deciding to retire from Test cricket."

Shami also thanked his teammates, coaches, family members and Indian supporters for standing by him throughout his career.

"Even though my last Test ball on the field has already been bowled, the pride of playing for India will forever stay alive in my heart," he wrote.

While Shami's journey in Test cricket has ended, he will continue to pursue limited-overs cricket and remains open to first-class appearances whenever required to maintain his fitness.