Mohammed Shami Retires from Test Cricket After 64 TestsSports

Shami said he was ending the journey with a heavy heart and many happy memories, but he was clear that he is not leaving cricket altogether. He plans to continue playing white-ball cricket, including the Indian Premier League and domestic limited-overs matches, and said he would remain available for domestic four-day cricket if his fitness allows.

229 wickets from 64 Tests

Shami played 64 Tests for India and took 229 wickets at an average of 27.71, including six five-wicket hauls. That record makes him the sixth most successful fast bowler in India’s Test history and the country’s 12th highest wicket-taker in the format overall.

His last Test appearance came in the World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval in June 2023. He has not played for India since the 2025 Champions Trophy, with injuries and fitness concerns limiting his appearances for the national side in recent years.

Shami was at his best away from home, taking 131 wickets in 35 Tests in South Africa, West Indies and England at an average of under 25. His ability to move the ball off the seam made him a key part of India’s pace attack in all conditions.

Former India bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, who worked with Shami between 2021 and 2024, said the fast bowler always gave everything on the day and came back for more, which he described as all that could be asked of a senior bowler. The retirement decision also comes after a period in which Shami had been overlooked by the national selectors.

Shami was also a leading performer in one-day cricket. He is India’s highest wicket-taker in 50-over World Cups, with 55 wickets to his name.

At domestic level, Shami plays for Bengal, and in the Indian Premier League he represents Lucknow Super Giants.

The announcement formally closes a Test career that had already been on hold for more than three years. It also leaves the door open for Shami to keep playing the shorter formats, where he has said he still wants to contribute.