Mohammed Shami retires from Test cricket

Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami has announced his retirement from Test cricket, ending a distinguished 13-year journey in the longest format of the game. The veteran pacer confirmed his decision on his X handle on Friday, exactly 13 years to the day after making his Test debut. Shami played his maiden Test match on 6 Nov 2013 against West Indies in Kolkata, marking the start of a celebrated red-ball career for India.

An emotional farewell to red-ball cricket
Reflecting on his journey, Shami shared a heartfelt message with fans, stating that stepping away from the white jersey was a poignant milestone. "I’m leaving behind the white jersey, but never the memories tied to it. When I first wore the Test jersey, I had only one dream - to do something for the country," Shami said.

"Since that day, every wicket, every battle, every injury, and every comeback has taught me something valuable. Test cricket was never just a format for me; it was an integral part of my life. I am retiring from Test cricket with beautiful memories," he added.

A distinguished Test career
Over a career spanning 64 Test matches, Shami took 229 wickets for India, including six five-wicket hauls. His final appearance in Test cricket came during the World Test Championship final against Australia in June 2023. Shami played a pivotal role in shaping India's formidable pace attack over the past decade, helping the national side secure landmark victories both at home and abroad.

Domestic roots and international legacy
Alongside his red-ball achievements, Shami remained a crucial asset in limited-overs formats. He delivered a sensational campaign during the 2023 ODI World Cup, taking 24 wickets in just seven innings.

The 36-year-old is India's all-time leading wicket-taker in 50-over World Cups with 55 wickets, while his final international appearance for India was in the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand in March 2025. Hailing from Uttar Pradesh and representing Bengal in domestic cricket, Shami fought his way back through domestic fixtures following a series of injury setbacks before deciding to close his Test chapter.

Shami said he would continue playing white-ball cricket and remain available for domestic multi-day matches after retiring from Test cricket. He currently represents Bengal in domestic cricket and plays for Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League.