Mohammed Shami announced his retirement from Test cricket on November 6, 2026, bringing to a close a 13-year career in the longest format. The fast bowler
made the announcement on the exact anniversary of his Test debut, which came against West Indies at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on November 6, 2013. Shami finished with 229 wickets from 64 Test matches at an average of 27.71, including six five-wicket hauls, placing him sixth among India's most successful fast bowlers in Test history.
Shami's former teammate and legendary India batter Shikhar Dhawan responded to the news on November 7, posting a tribute on his official social media account.
"What a journey, @MdShami11! 229 Test wickets and countless memories in the Indian jersey. Your passion, skill and fighting spirit have been an inspiration. Wishing you the very best for what's ahead bro! 🙌" Dhawan captioned his post.
Shami's Test career in numbers
The Amroha-born's own retirement announcement came via a video posted on his social media accounts on the anniversary of his debut.
"Today, with a heavy heart and countless beautiful memories, I'm deciding to retire from Test cricket," he said in his announcement on Friday, November 06.
Shami's last Test appearance came in the ICC World Test Championship Final against Australia on June 7, 2023. His most recent international appearance of any format was the Champions Trophy final in March 2025, in which India were victorious. He was a two-time ICC World Test Championship finalist with India and a member of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy-winning squad.
For the unversed, the senior pacer confirmed he will continue to participate in white-ball cricket, including the IPL and domestic competitions, as well as domestic multi-day cricket for fitness purposes. His Test career was interrupted by injuries on multiple occasions, though he returned to international cricket each time before eventually stepping away from the format. His 229 Test wickets remain a significant marker in India's pace-bowling history across the 13 years he represented the country in the longest format.
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