Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami vehemently denies recent reports of his Test cricket retirement. Read what Shami has to say and his status for the England tour.
Indian speedster Mohammed Shami has lashed out at reports that he is set to retire from Test cricket, labeling the news entirely false and harmful. The experienced pacer is visibly agitated and has blamed a news portal for circulating unsubstantiated reports about him.
Mohammed Shami Responds to Baseless News Report
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There was a report published by one news outlet that hinted Mohd Shami was set to retire from Test cricket. The news report came as Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli earlier announced their departure from the format in early May.
Not taking the rumor lightly, Shami responded via Instagram, slamming the report as completely false. He labeled it the “worst story of the day” and criticized the journalist behind it for spreading negativity.
Mohd Shami’s Instagram Statement:
Good job, King. See your own work and how many days are remaining before you write such things about me. People like you are ruining my future. At least say something good once in a while. This is the worst story today, sorry.
Mohd Shami’s Availability for England Tour in Doubt
Though Mohd Shami has confirmed that he is not retiring, his inclusion in India’s forthcoming Test tour of England is uncertain because of his persistent fitness issues. The five-match Test series is set to start on June 20, 2025, but Shami’s injury status and form may exclude him from contention
Fitness Issues: Achilles Injury Still a Concern
Shami last played international cricket during the 2023 ODI World Cup. Since then, he has been recovering from an Achilles tendon injury, which has hampered his return to peak performance.
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A BCCI insider told the Times of India:
“While IPL performances aren’t the priority for Test selection, Mohd Shami is finding it hard to complete his run-up and the ball isn’t coming in as much as it did in the past. He tends to return to the dressing room post-short spells for rest.”
The BCCI insider further added:
“Months have passed since he returned to international cricket, but he has not even been in rhythm. IPL performances are not generally taken into account while selecting India teams, but Shami is having a hard time completing his run-up, and the ball is not coming to the wicketkeeper like it did before his Achilles tendon damage after the 2023 ODI World Cup. He always returns to the dressing room after a brief spell for recuperation.”
Underwhelming IPL 2025 Performance Raises Questions
Playing for Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2025, Mohd Shami has not been impressive. In 9 games, he has picked up just 6 wickets, with a highest bowling average of 56.17, a far cry from his usual standards.
His wayward pace, absence of rhythm, and strained run-up have only added to doubts about his preparedness for the long game.
Is Mohd Shami Still in India’s Red-Ball Plans?
While the BCCI has not yet decided on the team for the England Test series, Mohd Shami is no longer considered an automatic choice. His selection will probably be subject to a fitness test and advice from the medical team.
Mohd Shami Refuses to Bow Out, Eyes Return Amid Scrutiny
In the face of raging rumors, Mohd Shami has emphatically denied any intention of retiring from Test cricket. Nevertheless, with injury issues still hanging over him and disappointing performances in IPL 2025, the path back into the Indian Test side looks long.
Supporters and selectors will observe with great interest as India readies for the high-profile England series, hoping a fully fit Mohd Shami can once more spearhead the Men in Blue.
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