Mohammed Shami has officially called time on his Test career, bringing an end to a remarkable journey in the longest format of the game.

Shami leaves behind an impressive record, having played a crucial role in several memorable victories for Team India.

Veteran Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami has officially called time on his Test career, bringing an end to a remarkable journey in the longest format of the game. One of India’s most dependable pace bowlers over the past decade, Shami leaves behind an impressive record, having played a crucial role in several memorable victories with his ability to generate pace, movement and reverse swing.

Mohammed Shami announces Test retirement

The 35-year-old announced his decision through a social media post late on Friday, thanking his teammates, coaches, family members and supporters for standing by him throughout his international career. His retirement also comes exactly 13 years after he made his Test debut for India against the West Indies at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

Shami confirmed his decision to retire from Test cricket through a heartfelt message, reflecting on the memories and experiences he gathered during his time in the longest format.

“Today, with a heavy heart and countless beautiful memories, I am taking the decision to retire from Test cricket,” Shami wrote in his social media post.

He also expressed gratitude to everyone who supported him throughout his journey, acknowledging the contribution of his teammates, coaching staff, family and millions of Indian cricket supporters.

Shami’s Test career spanned 64 matches, during which he claimed 229 wickets at an impressive average of 27.71. His tally included six five-wicket hauls, underlining his ability to deliver match-changing performances with the ball. Interestingly, his final Test appearance came in the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval. India suffered defeat in that contest, which turned out to be Shami’s last outing in the traditional format.

From dream debut to becoming a key member of India’s pace attack

Shami announced himself on the international stage with an outstanding performance during his Test debut against the West Indies on November 6, 2013. Playing at his home ground, Eden Gardens, the right-arm pacer picked up nine wickets for 118 runs across the match. That performance remained his career-best match figures throughout his 64-Test journey.

Over the years, Shami developed into one of India’s most effective fast bowlers, particularly because of his exceptional reverse-swing skills. While he was a major threat in subcontinental conditions, his performances in overseas assignments also established his reputation as a dependable member of India’s pace attack.

His ability to extract movement and maintain consistent bowling speeds made him particularly effective in challenging conditions. Four of his six five-wicket hauls came in Australia and South Africa, highlighting his impact outside India. Despite facing multiple injury setbacks during his career, Shami repeatedly fought his way back into the national team and continued to deliver important performances.

Injuries and comebacks mark final years of Test career

Shami’s journey during the latter stages of his career was heavily influenced by fitness concerns. Following an impressive campaign in the 2023 ODI World Cup at home, he underwent ankle surgery and subsequently dealt with knee-related problems.

These setbacks kept him away from the national side for a considerable period. He eventually returned to international cricket in January 2025, making his comeback in the T20 format before earning a place in India’s Champions Trophy squad.

However, following the final against New Zealand, Shami did not feature for India in any international format. He continued playing domestic cricket for Bengal and remained active in the IPL. During the ongoing domestic season, he has already featured in three Ranji Trophy matches and has also been included in Bengal’s Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy squad.

Shami finishes as India’s 12th-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket history and the sixth most successful Indian fast bowler in the format, with 229 wickets to his name.