Mohammed Shami has retired from Test cricket. He announced it on November 6, 2026. That date is special because he made his Test debut on the same day in 2013. He played against the West Indies at Eden Gardens. Thirteen years later, he chose that date to say goodbye to the longest format.
Shami, 36, shared an emotional message on social media. He said he is leaving the white jersey but not the memories. He wrote that when he first wore India’s Test jersey, it was just a dream to do something for his country. He said Test cricket was not just a format for him. It was a very special part of his life. He thanked his teammates, coaches, family and millions of Indian fans. He also thanked the BCCI and the Cricket Association of Bengal. He said even though his last Test ball has been bowled, the pride of playing for India will stay in his heart.
Shami is not leaving cricket completely. He plans to keep playing limited-overs cricket. He is also open to playing first-class games if he needs them to stay fit.
Shami played 64 Tests and took 229 wickets. His average was 27.71. He had six five-wicket hauls. His best figures were 6 for 56 against England. He played a big part in India’s overseas tours, especially in Australia, England and South Africa. He formed a strong fast-bowling group with the other pacers.
His career had many injuries and hard comebacks. His last Test was the World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval in June 2023. But Shami kept doing well in domestic cricket. Last week he took five wickets for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy opener against Delhi. Some people thought a new selection committee might bring him back. But the committee led by Pragyan Ojha did not pick him for the New Zealand tour.
Shami had recently said age was not affecting his fitness. He said, “I am still at my peak. There is no point beating around the bush. However I am, I am at my peak.”
Ravi Shastri Questions India’s Decision to Drop Mohammed Shami Before Test Retirement
Ravi Shastri is not happy that Mohammed Shami retired from Test cricket without getting another chance. Shastri used to coach India. He thinks Shami had already shown he was fit enough to play. Shastri pointed out that Shami kept playing for Bengal and bowled long spells. That should have been enough proof.
Shastri said being fit in the gym is not the same as bowling in a real match. He thinks a bowler who can bowl 10 or 12 overs in a game is truly fit. He asked what more Shami could have done to prove himself. Shastri said he was disappointed Shami did not get one more run in the team.
Shastri also questioned the selectors. He said Shami was playing every game for Bengal. He was bowling 15 to 20 overs. Shastri said that should tell you if a player is fit. He added that if a senior bowler gets hurt, you need experience. And Shami was right there. Shastri said it is sad when a player who served the country so well has to leave like this. He felt Shami still had 30 or 40 wickets left in him. He should have played in the last 12 months.
Shami played three Ranji Trophy matches this season. He took 14 wickets. Shastri thinks he could still have helped India’s Test attack.
Shami has retired from Tests. But he will keep playing white-ball cricket. He might also play four-day games if he stays fit. He said his international Test career ends now, but his white-ball journey continues. He is in Bengal’s squad for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, which starts on November 14. Shami also thanked the BCCI and the Cricket Association of Bengal.
FAQs
Q. When did Mohammed Shami announce his Test retirement?
A. Shami announced his retirement on November 6, 2026, exactly 13 years after his Test debut.
Q. How many wickets did Shami take in Test cricket?
A. Shami took 229 wickets in 64 Tests at an average of 27.71.
Q. Why was Ravi Shastri disappointed with Shami’s retirement?
A. Shastri felt Shami was fit enough to play and deserved another opportunity in India’s Test team.
Q. How many wickets did Shami take in three Ranji Trophy matches this season?
A. Shami took 14 wickets in three matches.
Q. Will Shami continue playing cricket after retiring from Tests?
A. Yes, Shami will continue playing limited-overs cricket and remains open to playing first-class matches.
Get the Latest Cricket Updates at IceCric.News. Also, Follow Our Social Media for live updates on Facebook and Instagram.
