Veteran India fast bowler Mohammed Shami has announced his retirement from Test cricket, bringing an end to a 13-year career in the longest format. The 35-year-old finishes with 229 wickets from 64 Tests at an average of 27.71, including six five-wicket hauls.
Shami made the announcement through a social media post late on Friday, November 6, expressing gratitude to his teammates, coaches, family and fans who supported him throughout his career.
“Today, with a heavy heart and countless beautiful memories, I am taking the decision to retire from Test cricket,” Shami wrote. He also thanked the millions of Indian supporters who continued to believe in him during both successful and difficult phases of his journey.
A Memorable Test Career That Began at Eden Gardens
Shami made his Test debut against West Indies at Eden Gardens on November 6, 2013, exactly 13 years before announcing his retirement. He made an immediate impact, taking nine wickets for 118 runs in the match. That remained his best match performance in Test cricket.
Over the years, Shami became one of India’s most dependable fast bowlers, particularly known for his ability to generate reverse swing and extract movement with the old ball. While he was effective in subcontinental conditions, his performances in overseas conditions also established his reputation as a leading member of India’s pace attack.
Four of his six five-wicket hauls came in Australia and South Africa, underlining his ability to deliver on challenging overseas tours.
Injuries and Comebacks Marked His Journey
Shami’s career was also shaped by several injury setbacks. Despite repeated fitness challenges, he regularly fought his way back into the Indian team.
Following an impressive performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup at home, where he emerged as one of India’s standout bowlers, Shami underwent ankle surgery. Subsequent knee-related problems kept him away from international cricket for an extended period.
He eventually returned to the T20I setup in January 2025 and was later included in India’s Champions Trophy squad. His last international appearance came in the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand. However, he has not represented India in any format since that match.
Despite his absence from the national team, Shami continued playing in the IPL and domestic cricket for Bengal. During the ongoing domestic season, he has already featured in three Ranji Trophy matches and has also been named in Bengal’s Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy squad.
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Shami Finishes Among India’s Leading Test Wicket-Takers
With 229 wickets, Shami finishes as India’s 12th-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket and the sixth-highest among Indian fast bowlers.
In his retirement message, he described Test cricket as a special part of his life, reflecting on the experiences and challenges that shaped his career.
“I am bidding farewell to the white kit, but never to the memories associated with it,” he wrote.
Shami added that every wicket, struggle, injury and comeback taught him something throughout his journey. Although he has bowled his final delivery in Test cricket, he said he would always carry the pride of representing India.
His retirement marks the end of a significant chapter in Indian Test cricket, particularly for a fast bowler who consistently delivered across different conditions.