Mohammed Shami Announces Retirement from Test Cricket After 13 Years
Mohammed Shami Bids Farewell to Test Cricket
Mohammed Shami, renowned for his exceptional swing and seam bowling, has officially retired from Test cricket after a remarkable 13-year journey. He shared this emotional announcement on Instagram, holding his Test cap number 279 and a red cricket ball, marking the end of his Test career exactly 13 years after his debut against the West Indies on November 6, 2013.
Career Statistics
Throughout his career, Shami played in 64 Test matches, taking 229 wickets across 122 innings with an impressive average of 27.71 and an economy rate of 3.30. His best bowling figures in an innings were 6/56, and he achieved 12 four-wicket hauls and six five-wicket hauls. Shami ranks as India's 12th-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket and holds the fourth-best bowling average among Indian bowlers with over 200 Test wickets.
Notable Bowling Achievements
Here are five of Shami's standout bowling performances during his illustrious Test career:
6/56 Against Australia, 2018
In a memorable match at Perth's Optus Stadium, Shami's 6/56 helped dismantle the Australian batting lineup after a challenging first innings. Despite India being bowled out for just 140 runs, Shami's performance was pivotal in India's historic Test series victory in Australia.
9/118 Against West Indies, 2013
During his debut at Eden Gardens, Shami made history with the best figures by an Indian pacer on debut. He took 4/71 in the first innings and followed it up with 5/47, although Rohit Sharma's 177 runs earned him the 'Player of the Match' award.
5/28 Against South Africa, 2018
In Johannesburg, Shami's 5/28 played a crucial role in securing a memorable win for India, as he took key wickets to help dismiss South Africa for 177 runs.
5/44 Against South Africa, 2021
At Centurion, Shami's 5/44 set the tone for India's victory, as South Africa was bowled out for 197 runs in response to India's first innings total.
5/35 Against South Africa, 2019
In Visakhapatnam, Shami's 5/35 helped India secure a win by skittling South Africa for just 191 runs, contributing to a remarkable series performance.