Indian cricket star Mohammed Shami has announced his retirement from Test cricket, bringing an emotional end to a 13-year journey that saw him become one of the country's most formidable fast bowlers. The 36-year-old pacer, who made his Test debut exactly 13 years ago, confirmed his decision on Friday, November 7, 2026, stating he would continue to play white-ball cricket.
A Distinguished Test Career
Shami concludes his Test career with an impressive record of 229 wickets from 64 matches, achieved at an average of 27.71. His tally includes six five-wicket hauls. He stands as India's sixth-highest wicket-taking fast bowler in Test history, behind legends such as Kapil Dev, Zaheer Khan, Ishant Sharma, Javagal Srinath, and Jasprit Bumrah.
His ability to generate seam and swing with both the new and old ball made him a crucial asset for India's pace attack across various global conditions. Notable performances include a 5/28 spell in Johannesburg during India's 2018 tour of South Africa and an eight-wicket haul in the opening Test at Centurion during a subsequent tour.
Emotional Farewell and Reflecting on the Journey
In an emotional statement shared via an Instagram post and a video message from his farmhouse in Sahaspur Alinagar, Uttar Pradesh, Shami reflected on his profound connection to the format.
"I am leaving the white jersey, but never the memories connected to it. When I first wore India's Test jersey, I had only a dream — to do something for my country. After that every wicket, every struggle, every injury and every comeback taught me something," he shared.
"Test cricket is not just a format for me, it is a very special part of my life. Today I am deciding to retire from Test cricket with a heavy heart and unlimited beautiful memories."
Shami, India's Test cap number 279, debuted against the West Indies at Eden Gardens on November 6, 2013. He acknowledged the many challenges he faced throughout his career:
"It's been a long journey of 13 years. Starting out from this village, I have worked very hard, seen many ups and downs, and finally, on this day, November 6, I received my Test cap and the red ball... I fell, but got back up for this cap and the ball."
Battles with Injury and Workload Concerns
Mohammed Shami's career was significantly impacted by injuries, particularly in recent years. He last played a Test match in the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia. Ankle surgery in February 2024 and subsequent knee issues led to him missing India's five-Test tour of Australia.
Despite returning for T20I and ODI series in early 2025 and playing in the Champions Trophy, a setback before the 2025 England Test tour ruled him out. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar cited workload concerns and medical advice against selecting him for the five-Test series, a decision that sparked debate.
Ravi Shastri Questions Decision
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri expressed disappointment regarding Shami's Test retirement, suggesting the pacer still had more to offer.
"It's sad when someone who's played so well for the country has to go. I definitely thought he had another 30 or 40 wickets in him. He should have played in the last 12 months and perhaps should have been in the side as a Test-match bowler," Shastri commented, questioning the emphasis on gym-based fitness over match-readiness.
Continuing in White-Ball Cricket
While his international Test journey concludes, Shami confirmed his commitment to white-ball cricket. He will continue to feature in domestic competitions like the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy for Bengal, and the Indian Premier League (IPL). He also stated he would play four-day domestic matches if fit.
His last appearance for India in any format was the 2025 Champions Trophy final, where he was the joint-highest wicket-taker with nine wickets in five matches. Shami concluded his announcement by thanking the BCCI and the Cricket Association of Bengal, expressing hope for the emergence of more cricketing talent from across the nation.