(Source X)
Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami has shared his thoughts on retirement following his recovery from a prolonged injury that sidelined him from the game for several months. Shami expressed his determination to continue playing cricket until at least 2034, provided his body remains cooperative.
The seasoned pacer emphasized that retirement is not on his mind at the moment; rather, his focus remains on outperforming the opposition whenever he steps onto the field. Shami, known for his crucial role in the Indian cricket team across all formats alongside Jasprit Bumrah, has cemented his place with consistent performances over the years.
During the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, Shami emerged as India’s leading wicket-taker, delivering pivotal performances including notable 5-wicket hauls. His standout moment came in the semi-final clash against New Zealand, where his 7-wicket haul propelled India to victory and secured their spot in the final.
Despite missing out on IPL 2024 and the T20 World Cup 2024 due to injury, Shami’s dedication and skill continue to mark him as a key asset for Indian cricket, ensuring his presence is eagerly anticipated whenever he returns to the pitch.
During a YouTube interview with journalist Shubhankar Mishra, Mohammed Shami shared insights into his future in cricket. The right-arm pacer dismissed any speculations about his retirement, emphasizing that he pays no heed to such rumors.
In a reflective moment, Shami expressed gratitude for the blessings in his life, attributing his successes to a higher power. His comments reflected a grounded perspective on his career and a steadfast focus on continuing to contribute to the sport he loves.
“I have already told you this. Many people have put a question mark on my retirement. I have nothing to do with anyone’s opinions. I never talk to them, nor do I listen to them. I can respond to them but never listen to them. God has given me so much and I respect that and thank him”, the right-arm pacer said.
Shami, who secured the purple cap in IPL 2023, mentioned that he intends to exit cricket only when the game no longer excites him. Emphasizing his commitment to continue playing as long as his confidence and passion endure, he expressed openness to extending his career until 2034 if circumstances allow.
“Talking about my retirement, the day I feel I am bored of cricket, I will say goodbye to the game. Doesn’t matter if it is T20Is, ODIs, or Tests, when I am at the ground I want to beat everyone”, the Indian pacer said.
“I have that much self-confidence. I don’t care about my age. Doesn’t matter it is 2026, 2028, 2030, or 2034, when I am on the ground, I will perform. However, I will be on the ground only when I am confident to perform”, Mohammed Shami further added.
Shami hinted towards his potential return for the years ahead, specifically mentioning 2026, 2027, and 2028, provided he continues to shoulder the responsibilities of a fast bowler effectively within the team.
“I will be back, it does not matter if it is 2026, 2027, or 2028. I will not leave playing until I feel I am wasting the place of a pacer in the team, or not being able to take up responsibilities”, he concluded.
Under the guidance of newly appointed coach Gautam Gambhir, the Indian Team is gearing up for several key ICC tournaments over the next few years. These include the ICC World Test Championship Final 2025, ICC Champions Trophy 2025, ICC T20 World Cup 2026, and the upcoming ICC ODI World Cup 2027.
Having recently clinched the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 under the captaincy of Rohit Sharma, India is poised for further successes with Shami in peak form, likely to play a pivotal role in these upcoming events.
