Mohammed Shami stepped away from Test cricket on November 6, 2026, concluding a 13-year international journey that began on the same date in 2013. The 36-year-old fast bowler finished his Test career with 229 wickets across 64 matches at an average of 27.71, establishing himself among India’s most accomplished pace bowlers. Despite retiring from the longest format, Shami confirmed his intention to continue representing India in white-ball cricket.
Manoj Tiwary, the former Bengal captain, shared a tribute to Shami following the retirement announcement. The two had played together in domestic cricket, with Shami forming a key part of Bengal’s bowling unit during Tiwary’s tenure as captain. Tiwary’s message reflected on the impact Shami had made both as a teammate and as a cricketer.
What Tiwary said about his former teammate
Tiwary expressed his admiration for Shami’s character and competitive spirit. The tribute captured the lasting impression Shami had made on those who played alongside him.
“The red ball may no longer be in his hands, but the memories of his thunderbolts will forever remain in the hearts of cricket lovers. Some legends don’t say goodbye; they simply become history,” Tiwary said on X.
Tiwary also shared a personal recollection of their time together in domestic cricket. He described Shami as a “Warrior”.
“This what it meant to me When I was leading the bengal team and having Shami in the bowling line up. Warrior at heart,” he added.
The comment underscored Shami’s reputation as a fierce competitor and committed team player throughout his career.
Shami’s standout performances and career milestones
Shami’s Test debut came against West Indies at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on November 6, 2013, exactly 13 years before his retirement announcement. Over his career, he claimed six five-wicket hauls in Test cricket, demonstrating his ability to deliver match-winning performances. In 35 Tests across South Africa, West Indies and India, Shami took 131 wickets at an average under 25, showcasing his particular effectiveness in those regions.
During India’s 2018 tour of South Africa, Shami produced a 5/28 spell in the second innings of the Johannesburg Test, one of his most memorable performances on foreign soil. On a subsequent India visit to South Africa, he claimed eight wickets in the series-opening Test at Centurion. His final Test appearance came in the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord’s, where he represented India on one of the sport’s biggest stages.
