Mohammed Shami Announces Retirement From Test Cricket After 11-Year Career

New Delhi: Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami has announced his retirement from Test cricket, bringing the curtain down on an illustrious 11-year career in the longest format of the game.

The 2013 Test debutant shared the announcement through an emotional Instagram post, thanking the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), teammates and fans for their support throughout his journey.

However, Shami has not retired from international cricket and will remain available for India in limited-overs formats, including ODIs and T20Is.

Reflecting on his Test career, the experienced pacer described the format as a special and valuable part of his life. His announcement marks the end of a significant chapter in Indian cricket, during which he established himself as one of the country’s most dependable fast bowlers.

Shami’s decision comes after a prolonged struggle with injuries, including an ankle problem that kept him out of action following the 2023 World Test Championship final. However, he has not publicly cited fitness concerns as the specific reason for his retirement.

Mohammed Shami’s Test Career

Shami represented India in 64 Test matches, claiming 229 wickets in 122 innings at an impressive average of 27.71. He maintained an economy rate of 3.30 and a strike rate of 50.2.

His Test career included six five-wicket hauls, with best bowling figures of 6/56 in an innings and 9/118 in a match.

Known for his ability to generate reverse swing, extract pace and deliver crucial breakthroughs, Shami played a vital role in India’s pace attack across conditions.

While his Test journey has come to an end, the veteran pacer will continue his international career in white-ball cricket, where he will look to contribute to India’s future campaigns.