Former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin believes Mohammed Shami could have continued playing Test cricket for a few more years and expressed hope that the BCCI would utilise his experience in a coaching role to nurture the next generation of Indian fast bowlers. Shami announced his retirement from Test cricket on Friday, bringing the curtain down on a 13-year career in the longest format. The veteran pacer represented India in 64 Tests, claiming 229 wickets in 122 innings at an average of 27.71 and an economy rate of 3.30. His best figures were 6/56, while he recorded 12 four-wicket hauls and six five-wicket hauls. Speaking to ANI, Azharuddin said Shami had given a lot to Indian cricket and that his decision deserved respect. However, he admitted he was surprised by the timing of the retirement and felt the pacer still had plenty to offer in red-ball cricket.
“Whenever a player retires, it is a very emotional moment because you get used to watching him play for so many years. Shami has played for more than 13 years and has given a lot to the country. It is sad that he has retired, but since he has taken the decision, we have to respect it. He has done exceptionally well for the country,” Azharuddin said.
“I wish him all the best. Personally, I did not think he would retire so early because I always believed he was a very good bowler for the five-day format. It is surprising that he has retired from Test cricket. Maybe he could have continued playing the longer format and considered retirement from ODIs later. But ultimately, it is his decision. He was an outstanding bowler who worked extremely hard on his craft and was still performing well,” he added.
Describing Shami as one of the finest Indian fast bowlers after Kapil Dev, Azharuddin said he hoped the veteran would pass on his knowledge to young pacers in the future.
“I hope and pray that he imparts his knowledge to younger players. I also sincerely hope that the BCCI recognises his services and considers him for a coaching role or another position in the future. He is one of the finest fast bowlers India has produced after Kapil Paaji. There can be no comparison with Kapil Paaji, but Shami belonged to the same mould,” he said.
“I hope the BCCI gives him an opportunity to guide the next generation. There is no shortage of talented fast bowlers in India today, and his experience over the years can be invaluable for Indian cricket and the country’s young pacers,” Azharuddin added.
Shami’s last Test appearance came in the ICC World Test Championship 2021-23 final against Australia, where he returned figures of 2/122 and 2/39.
In a heartfelt video message shared on Instagram, Shami thanked his parents, family, friends, teammates, coaches and fans for their support throughout his Test career.
Holding his Test cap No. 279 and a red ball, the pacer reflected on the significance of November 6, the date on which he made his Test debut in 2013 and also chose to announce his retirement.
“First and foremost, I want to thank the Almighty. God has given me much more than I could ever have imagined. After that, I want to thank my parents, family, friends and everyone who contributed, even in a small way, to this 13-year journey. Coming from a small village, I worked very hard and went through many ups and downs,” Shami said.
“On November 6, these two things came into my hands for the first time – the red ball and Test cap No. 279. Today, after 13 years, I am bringing this journey to an end. Through all the injuries, setbacks and struggles, I continued to get back up every time for this badge and for India,” he added.
Shami made his Test debut against West Indies in November 2013, taking 4/71 and 5/47 to help India secure an innings-and-51-run victory.
The 36-year-old confirmed that he will continue playing white-ball cricket, including the IPL and domestic competitions.
“Today, I conclude this 13-year journey. I will leave red-ball cricket behind, but I will continue playing white-ball cricket, whether it is the IPL or domestic matches. If required for fitness, I will keep playing domestic cricket. But as far as international Test cricket is concerned, the journey ends here. Thank you all for the love and support. Happy Diwali to everyone,” Shami said.
In the caption accompanying his retirement post, Shami described Test cricket as a special part of his life and said he was stepping away from the format with a heavy heart and cherished memories.
“When I first wore India’s Test jersey, I had only one dream – to do something special for my country. Every wicket, every struggle, every injury and every comeback taught me something. Test cricket has never been just a format for me; it has been a very special part of my life. Today, with a heavy heart and countless beautiful memories, I have decided to retire from Test cricket,” he wrote.
Shami also thanked the BCCI, the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), his teammates and the fans for standing by him throughout his career.
“My final Test ball may have already been bowled, but the pride of representing India will forever remain alive in my heart. Thank you, Test cricket,” he concluded.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
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