Mohammed Shami Retires From Test Cricket After 13-Year International Career

Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami announced his retirement from international Test cricket on November 6, 2026, bringing an end to a remarkable 13-year journey in the longest format. Interestingly, he made his Test debut on the same date in 2013 against the West Indies.

Shami finished his Test career with 229 wickets in 64 matches at an average of 27.71 and a strike rate of 50.2. He narrowly missed out on a place among India’s top five wicket-takers in Test cricket.

The fast bowler confirmed that he will continue playing white-ball cricket, including the IPL and domestic tournaments. He also said he would play multi-day domestic cricket if required to maintain his fitness.

Shami made an impressive start to his Test career, taking nine wickets for 118 runs on debut against the West Indies. His ability to maintain an upright seam position, generate reverse swing and trouble batters with his pace made him one of India’s most reliable fast bowlers.

His record at home was particularly impressive. Shami took wickets at an average of 22.1 in India, with a strike rate of 42.6. Only three Indian bowlers have recorded a better home Test strike rate.

India won 31 of the 64 Tests Shami played and drew 13. He also never lost a Test series at home during his career.

One of Shami’s biggest strengths was his ability to hit the stumps. Nearly 45 per cent of his Test dismissals came through bowled or lbw. His famous delivery to England captain Alastair Cook in 2016, which broke the stumps in half, remains one of the memorable moments of his career.

In his retirement message, Shami reflected on the challenges he faced during his 13 years in international cricket.

“In this 13-year journey, this cap, this ball, made me Mohammed Shami. All the ups and downs, I did fall, I did get hurt, I did get injured. But I stood up again for this badge,” he said.

He also thanked his coaches, trainers, medical staff and fans for supporting him throughout his career.

Shami last played Test cricket in the World Test Championship final against Australia in June 2023. He has not represented India in international cricket since the Champions Trophy final in March 2025.

The 35-year-old continues to represent Bengal in domestic cricket and plays for Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL. His decision to step away from Test cricket will allow him to focus on the shorter formats and his remaining cricket career.

With 229 Test wickets to his name, Shami leaves behind a strong legacy as one of India’s finest fast bowlers of the modern era.