Kolkata: India pacer Mohammed Shami on Friday announced his retirement from Test cricket, bringing an end to a 12-year career in which he claimed 229 wickets in 64 matches.
The 36-year-old, who has been out of the Indian team since the 2025 Champions Trophy, announced his decision in an Instagram post. He said he would continue playing white-ball cricket.
"I am leaving the white jersey, but never the memories connected to it. When I first wore India's Test jersey, I had only a dream — to do something for my country. After that every wicket, every struggle, every injury and every comeback taught me something," Shami wrote.
"Test cricket is not just a format for me, it is a very special part of my life. Today I am deciding to retire from Test cricket with a heavy heart and unlimited beautiful memories," he added.
Shami made his Test debut against the West Indies at Eden Gardens on November 6, 2013. He finished with 229 wickets at an average of 27.71, including six five-wicket hauls.
His ability to generate seam movement and swing with both the new and old ball made him a key member of India's pace attack across different conditions.
He claimed 131 wickets in 35 Tests in South Africa, the West Indies and India, at an average of under 25.
Some of his most memorable performances came in South Africa. During India's 2018 tour, he returned figures of 5/28 in the second innings of the Johannesburg Test, helping the visitors secure a consolation victory.
On India's next tour of South Africa, he claimed eight wickets in the opening Test at Centurion.
Shami's last Test appearance came in the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval. Injuries subsequently disrupted his career, but he remained an important part of India's white-ball setup.
