Madan Lal Commends Mohammed Shami's Impact on Indian Cricket After Retirement

Former Indian cricketer Madan Lal has praised Mohammed Shami's contributions to the national team following his retirement from Test cricket. Shami, who played 67 Tests and took 229 wickets, announced his decision through an Instagram post. Lal expressed that Shami deserved more time on the team and highlighted his significant performances in the Ranji Trophy. The discussion sheds light on Shami's impactful career and the circumstances surrounding his retirement, raising questions about selection decisions in Indian cricket.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 7, 2026, 17:47 IST

Madan Lal Reflects on Mohammed Shami's Career

On Saturday, former Indian cricketer Madan Lal expressed his admiration for Mohammed Shami's significant contributions to Indian cricket following the pacer's retirement from Test matches. He believes Shami deserved to remain part of the national team for at least another year.

Shami made his retirement announcement after playing 67 Test matches and claiming 229 wickets. In an interview, Madan Lal highlighted Shami's impressive career and his pivotal role in numerous victories for India. He speculated that Shami might have chosen to retire after waiting for another chance to represent the country.

Madan Lal on Shami's Retirement Decision

Madan Lal stated, "It has indeed been a remarkable career. A pacer who has played 67 Test matches and taken 229 wickets has had an excellent journey, contributing to India's success on multiple occasions. He had been waiting for two to three months, hoping for selection in upcoming Test matches, but when that did not happen, he likely felt it was time to retire."

The former cricketer also noted Shami's consistent performances in the Ranji Trophy, where he continued to take wickets, indicating his desire for another chance in the Indian Test squad. Madan Lal remarked that Shami should have been considered for selection over the past year, suggesting that the team management could have retained him if his form had remained strong.

"He was performing well in the Ranji Trophy, taking wickets, and was likely hoping for another opportunity. However, he hasn't received it yet. I believe he should have been playing for the past year. If his performance had continued to be good, they should have kept him in the team. Now that he has retired, we must respect his decision, but he is undoubtedly one of India's finest bowlers," he added.

The 36-year-old pacer announced his retirement via an Instagram post, concluding his Test career. Known for his exceptional seam movement and swing with both new and old balls, Shami retires with a record of 229 wickets from 64 Tests, including six five-wicket hauls.