Mohammed Shami announces Test retirement on the 13th anniversary of his Eden Gardens debut
Mohammed Shami announced his retirement from Test cricket on November 6, 2026, the same date he made his India Test debut against the West Indies at Eden Gardens in 2013. The 36-year-old posted an emotional message on social media to mark the decision.
Shami said he will not quit cricket entirely and intends to continue in limited-overs formats while remaining open to first-class matches to maintain fitness. "I'm taking my leave from the white jersey, but never from the memories attached to it," Shami wrote.
The announcement followed uncertainty over his place in India's Test plans after he was left out of the India A squad for the three four-day matches scheduled ahead of the senior team's upcoming Test series in New Zealand, an omission that suggested a recall was unlikely. Expectations that a change in the selection committee after Ajit Agarkar's exit might reopen the door did not materialise: the new panel led by Pragyan Ojha did not include Shami in its plans for the New Zealand tour.
Shami finished his Test career with 64 matches and 229 wickets at an average of 27.71, including six five-wicket hauls and best figures of 6/56 against England. The report noted his capacity to generate pace, extract reverse swing and influence matches with the old ball, and said he played important roles in India's overseas campaigns in Australia, England and South Africa.
His time in the format was repeatedly disrupted by injuries and comebacks, and his final Test appearance came in the World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval in June 2023. Shami reflected on that journey in his message, saying: "When I first wore India's Test jersey, it was just a dream — to do something for my country. Every wicket after that, every struggle, every injury, and every comeback taught me something or the other," he wrote. "Test cricket hasn't been just a format for me; it's been an incredibly special part of my life. Today, with a heavy heart and countless beautiful memories, I'm deciding to retire from Test cricket," he added.
Domestically, Shami remained active: he took five wickets for Bengal in their Ranji Trophy opener against Delhi in Kalyani last week and had earlier defended his physical condition during Bengal's Ranji match against Services, saying, "I am still at my peak. There is no point beating around the bush. However I am, I am at my peak," he had said. Despite that assertion of fitness, his omission from immediate Test plans contributed to questions about his future in the format.
Shami thanked teammates, coaches, family and supporters in his social-media note and acknowledged the Board of Control for Cricket in India and the Cricket Association of Bengal for their roles in his career. "Even though my last Test ball on the field has already been bowled, the pride of playing for India will forever stay alive in my heart," he wrote.
Shami leaves Test cricket having taken 229 wickets, but he will continue to play limited-overs cricket and is prepared to feature in first-class matches when required to keep fit.
