India fast bowler Mohammed Shami has announced his retirement from Test cricket, ending a career that lasted more than a decade.
The 36-year-old confirmed his decision through an Instagram post on Friday, bringing an end to his journey in the longest format after playing 64 Tests for India.
Shami finishes his Test career with 229 wickets, including six five-wicket hauls. He became one of India’s most reliable fast bowlers with his ability to swing the ball and trouble batters in different conditions.
He made his Test debut against the West Indies in 2013 and soon became an important member of India’s bowling attack.
Shami enjoyed considerable success outside India. He took 145 wickets in 41 away Tests at an average of 30.33.
Some of his best performances came in South Africa.
During India’s 2018 tour, Shami took five wickets for just 28 runs in the second innings of the Johannesburg Test. His spell helped India secure a memorable victory.
He also played a major role during India’s next Test tour of South Africa. Shami claimed eight wickets in the opening Test at Centurion as India recorded another important win.
His ability to move the ball off the pitch made him dangerous even when conditions did not favour fast bowling.
Shami regularly troubled batters with his accuracy and seam movement. He could also produce important breakthroughs with both the new and old ball.
However, injuries affected his career and kept him away from international cricket at different stages.
His final Test appearance came against Australia in the ICC World Test Championship final in 2023.
Despite his injury problems, Shami remained an important figure in India’s fast bowling unit for several years.
His retirement brings an end to a Test career in which he helped India compete against some of the strongest teams in world cricket, particularly away from home.
With 229 wickets to his name, Shami leaves behind a record that reflects his importance to India’s bowling attack over the past 13 years.
