India’s veteran fast bowler brings Test career to a close
The 36-year-old brings the curtain down on a 64-Test career, having played a key role in some of India’s biggest moments in the format.
Mohammed Shami has announced his retirement from Test cricket, bringing an end to a career that saw him become one of India’s most dependable fast bowlers across conditions and on the biggest stages.
The 36-year-old shared the news through a post on Instagram, drawing the curtain on his journey in the longest format. Known for his ability to generate seam movement and swing with both the new and old ball, Shami leaves behind a record of 229 wickets from 64 Tests, including six five-wicket hauls.
Shami made his Test debut against West Indies in 2013 and quickly established himself as a key part of India’s pace attack.
His ability to deliver in challenging conditions made him particularly valuable away from home, with 145 wickets coming in 41 Tests, at an average of 30.33.
South Africa was among the places where Shami produced some of his most memorable performances. During India’s 2018 tour, he took 5/28 in the second innings of the Johannesburg Test to help secure a consolation victory. On the next tour, he claimed eight wickets in the first Test at Centurion as India registered another memorable win.
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His final Test appearance came in the 2023 ICC World Test Championship Final against Australia. While injuries interrupted different phases of his career, his contributions with the ball remained an important part of India's success.
