Watch: Mohammed Shami announces retirement from Test cricket in an emotional video

Veteran Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami has announced his retirement from Test cricket, bringing an end to a career filled with memorable performances and comebacks. Shami played 64 Tests for India, taking 229 wickets at an average of 27.71, including six five-wicket hauls. His last Test appearance came in the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval.

Shami, who wore Test cap No. 279, announced his retirement through an emotional post on X. The 35-year-old pacer reflected on his journey in the longest format and thanked everyone who supported him throughout his career. He also shared a heartfelt message in Hindi: "Safed jersey se vida le raha hoon, lekin usse judi yaadon se kabhi nahi" (I am bidding farewell to the white jersey, but never to the memories associated with it).

Along with his retirement announcement, Shami shared an emotional video message on social media, reflecting on his journey in Test cricket. His decision comes after repeated selection snubs from India's Test squad.

Watch his viral retirement video here:

Mohammed Shami announces Test retirement: What he said in the emotional video

Mohammed Shami announced his retirement from Test cricket through an emotional Instagram post, reflecting on his journey in the longest format. Sharing his decision, the Indian pacer wrote, "I'm taking my leave from the white jersey, but never from the memories attached to it." He recalled that wearing India's Test jersey for the first time was a dream and that every wicket, struggle, injury and comeback taught him valuable lessons.

Shami described Test cricket as a special part of his life and said he was retiring with a heavy heart and countless beautiful memories. He thanked his teammates, coaches, family members and millions of Indian fans for supporting him through both good and difficult times. He also expressed his gratitude to the BCCI and the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) for believing in his talent and giving him opportunities throughout his career.

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Concluding his message, Shami said that although he had already bowled his last ball in Test cricket, the pride of representing India would always remain in his heart. He signed off by thanking the longest format, writing, "Thank you, Test Cricket. ❤️"

Shami’s Test career: 229 wickets in 64 Tests, last appearance and key records

Mohammed Shami played 64 Tests for India between 2013 and 2023, taking 229 wickets at an average of 27.71. His best bowling figures in an innings were 6/56, while his best match figures were 9/118. He also recorded six five-wicket hauls during his Test career. Shami made his Test debut against the West Indies at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on November 6, 2013, and finished the match with 9 wickets.

His last Test appearance came in the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval in June 2023. Known for his pace, reverse swing and ability to trouble batters with the old ball, Shami became an important part of India's fast-bowling attack. He played key roles in India's overseas campaigns, particularly in Australia, England and South Africa, and formed a strong partnership with his fellow fast bowlers.

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However, Shami's Test career was also marked by injuries and fitness challenges. These setbacks kept him out of the team on several occasions and forced him to work hard on his fitness before making comebacks. Despite these challenges, he remained one of India's most effective fast bowlers in the longest format, finishing his career with 229 wickets in 64 Tests.

Selection snubs, reactions and What’s next for Shami in ODIs, T20s and SMAT

Mohammed Shami has not played a Test match since the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval. His last appearance for India in any format came during the 2025 Champions Trophy, which India won under Rohit Sharma's captaincy. Despite regularly playing for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy and other domestic competitions, Shami has remained out of India's recent Test squads, including the squad for the New Zealand tour.

His absence from the national Test team has raised questions about his future in the longest format, especially after repeated selection snubs. However, Shami's retirement announcement has brought clarity to his plans for Test cricket. The experienced pacer has decided to step away from the longest format after playing 64 Tests for India.

Shami's retirement announcement is limited to Test cricket. He has not announced his retirement from ODIs, T20 Internationals or domestic cricket. This means he remains available for other formats and domestic competitions, including the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), subject to selection and fitness.