Mumbai, November 2026 : India fast bowler Mohammed Shami has announced his retirement from Test cricket, bringing the curtain down on a 13-year career in the longest format during which he represented the country in 64 matches and claimed 229 wickets.
The 36-year-old pacer made the announcement through a video message posted on his Instagram account, saying that he was bidding farewell to Test cricket but would always cherish the memories associated with the format.
Born in Amroha, Uttar Pradesh, Shami established himself as one of India's leading fast bowlers through his ability to generate pace, movement and reverse swing. He claimed five wickets in an innings on five occasions during his Test career. His best bowling figures were 6/56 against Australia in Perth in December 2018.
Shami's retirement comes after a prolonged period of injury-related interruptions that kept him away from the Indian team across formats. With his opportunities to return to the Test squad appearing limited, the experienced fast bowler has decided to bring his red-ball career to an end.
In his emotional message, Shami expressed gratitude to the Almighty, his family, friends, coaches and support staff for standing by him throughout his journey.
"Today, I want to express my gratitude and say thank you to a few people. First and foremost, I want to thank the Almighty. The One above has given me so much, far more than I could have ever imagined or thought possible," he said.
Reflecting on his journey from a small village in Uttar Pradesh to representing India at the highest level, Shami described the 13 years as a period marked by hard work, challenges and valuable experiences.
"It has been a long journey — thirteen years — starting from such a small place. I have worked incredibly hard and experienced many ups and downs. I certainly fell, got hurt and sustained injuries, but I always stood back up to face the challenge again. It has been a truly remarkable thirteen-year journey," he said.
The pacer also acknowledged the contribution of his coaches, strength trainers, physiotherapists and the entire support team, thanking everyone who had played a role in his career.
Shami made his Test debut against the West Indies on November 6, 2013. His last appearance in the format came against Australia in June 2023. Over the years, he became an important member of India's pace attack, contributing to several memorable performances at home and overseas.
At the domestic level, Shami represented Bengal in the Ranji Trophy and played for East Zone in zonal cricket.
Although he has retired from the longest format, his announcement marks the end of only one chapter in a career that has seen him overcome repeated injuries and make a significant contribution to Indian cricket.
