Veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami is going through a challenging phase in his cricketing journey. At 34, and despite recently featuring in the 2025 Champions Trophy, Shami finds himself on the fringes of India’s plans — missing out from both Test and T20I squads. The situation has sparked widespread speculation about his potential retirement, but the fast bowler has made it clear: he’s not going anywhere just yet.
Shami Responds to Retirement Rumors: “I Will Leave When I’m Bored”
Shami, who was initially left out of the England Test series due to concerns over fitness, was also ignored for the Asia Cup selection. In fact, according to reports, his name wasn’t even discussed — a telling sign of where he currently stands in the selectors’ pecking order.
Despite the setbacks, Shami remains unfazed. Speaking to News24 in a statement reported by the Times of India, he addressed the growing talk around his retirement:
“If someone has a problem, tell me. Whose life will become better if I take retirement? The day I get bored, I will leave. You don’t pick me, don’t play me, I don’t care. But I will keep working hard.”
The experienced pacer stressed that lack of selection will not discourage him from continuing to train and compete. Shami is currently preparing to represent East Zone in the Duleep Trophy, showing that he’s ready to grind it out at the domestic level to stay in rhythm.
“You don’t pick me in internationals, I will play domestic. I will keep playing somewhere or the other,” he added.
“Retirement comes when you’re tired or unwilling to wake up early to train. That’s not me — I’ll be up at 5 if needed.”
Fitness Update: Shami Targets Long Spells, Eyes Home Test Comeback
Following his standout performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup, Shami suffered a major Achilles injury, which kept him out of action and raised serious concerns about his long-term fitness. But the pacer now claims to be in much better shape, both physically and mentally.
“Touchwood, it is better now,” Shami said.
“I’ve worked hard — improved skills, practiced batting, fielding, gym work — everything. My focus is on rhythm and being able to bowl long spells.”
There’s quiet optimism that if he continues to prove his fitness, Shami could be in contention for selection in India’s upcoming home Tests against West Indies and South Africa. However, nothing is certain at this stage.
For now, ODIs appear to be the only international format where Shami might still have a role to play. While the selectors seem to be building for the future in Tests and T20Is, Shami’s experience and proven ability could still make him valuable in the 50-over format.
Conclusion:
Mohammed Shami may be out of favor in Indian cricket’s current setup, but he isn’t done yet. With domestic cricket as his platform and ODIs as his potential last frontier, the veteran pacer remains committed to the game — eyes fixed on fitness, form, and perhaps, a final comeback.
