‘Thank you, Test Cricket’: Shami retires from longest format of the game

Mohammad Shami (AFP Photo)

NEW DELHI: Fast bowler Mohammed Shami has retired from Test cricket, closing a 13-year career in the longest format with an emotional message on Instagram on Friday night.The announcement came exactly 13 years after his Test debut.

Shami first played for India in the format on 6 November 2013, against West Indies in Kolkata.“I am bidding farewell to the white jersey, but never to the memories associated with it,” Shami wrote.

Recalling his first Test cap, he added: “When I wore India’s Test jersey for the first time, I had only one dream — to do something for my country. Since then, every wicket, every struggle, every injury, and every comeback has taught me something.”He described the format as far more than a place to play.“Test cricket has not just been a format for me, it has been a deeply special part of my life,” Shami further noted. “Today, with a heavy heart and countless beautiful memories, I am announcing my retirement from Test cricket.”

The 36-year-old thanked the people around him, from “every teammate, coach, family member, and the millions of Indians who supported me on this journey, and who kept their faith in me through both good times and bad.”

He also named the BCCI and the Cricket Association of Bengal, his home association, for backing him early. “A sincere thank you as well to the BCCI and the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) for believing in my talent, giving me opportunities to grow, and playing a vital role in my cricketing journey. Your support and trust will always remain special to me.”Shami finishes with 229 wickets from 64 Tests, including six five-wicket hauls and best figures of 6/56. His last Test was the June 2023 match against Australia. In the same year he was the leading wicket-taker at the ODI World Cup, with 24 wickets in seven innings.He closed his message on a personal note. “Even though my final Test ball has been bowled on the field, the pride of playing for India will always remain alive in my heart. Thank you, Test Cricket.”