Mohammed Shami retires from Test cricket after 12-year career
Former Bengal captain Manoj Tiwary paid tribute to the fast bowler following his announcement on Friday.
Fast bowler Mohammed Shami announced his retirement from Test cricket on Friday, ending a 12-year career in the longest format. According to the Times of India, the 36-year-old confirmed via an Instagram post that he will continue to play white-ball cricket despite leaving the red-ball format.
Shami stated that he is retiring with a heavy heart and unlimited beautiful memories. He noted that every wicket, struggle, injury, and comeback taught him something since he first wore the India Test jersey.
Former India cricketer and ex-Bengal captain Manoj Tiwary described Shami as a warrior on X. Tiwary, who led the Bengal team with Shami in the bowling attack, said that while the red ball may no longer be in his hands, the memories of his thunderbolts will remain.
Shami made his Test debut against the West Indies at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on November 6, 2013. He played 64 matches and took 229 wickets at an average of 27.71, including six five-wicket hauls.
Of his 229 wickets, 131 were taken in 35 Tests played in India, the West Indies, and South Africa, where he maintained an average of under 25. His final Test appearance was during the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord's.