‘Some legends don’t say goodbye’: Former India cricketer’s heartfelt message for Mohammed Shami after Test retirement

Mohammad Shami (Photo AFP) Former India cricketer and former Bengal captain Manoj Tiwary paid an emotional tribute to Mohammed Shami after the veteran fast bowler announced his retirement from Test cricket on Friday, bringing the curtain down on a 12-year career in the longest format.Tiwary, who had the opportunity to lead Bengal with Shami in his bowling attack, took to X to reflect on the pacer’s impact and recall his association with the fast bowler. He described Shami as a warrior while highlighting the lasting memories he created with his performances in the red ball format.“The red ball may not be in his hands anymore, but the memories of his lightning strikes will forever remain in the hearts of cricket lovers. Some legends don’t say goodbye, they just become history,” Tiwary wrote.Recalling his time as Bengal captain, he added: “This is what it meant to me when I was leading the Bengal team and having Shami in the bowling line-up. A warrior at heart.”Shami’s announcement brings to an end an impressive Test career spanning 64 matches in which he took 229 wickets. The 36-year-old made the announcement via an Instagram post, confirming that while he will no longer represent India in the white jersey, he intends to continue playing white-ball cricket.“I’m leaving the white jersey, but I’ve never had any memories of it. When I first donned the Indian Test jersey, I had only a dream — to do something for my country. After that, every wicket, every match, every injury and every comeback taught me something,” Shami wrote.“Test cricket for me is not just a format, it is a very special part of my life. Today I decide to retire from Test cricket with a heavy heart and unlimited fond memories,” he added.

A 12-year journey in India’s Test colours

Shami made his Test debut against the West Indies at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens on 6 November 2013. He finished his career with 229 wickets at an average of 27.71, including six five-wicket hauls.His ability to extract movement through the seam and swing with both the new ball and the old has made him a key member of India’s pace attack in a variety of conditions.Of his 229 wickets, 131 came in 35 Tests played in South Africa, the West Indies and India, where he maintained an average of under 25.South Africa has witnessed some of Shami’s best performances in Test cricket. During the 2018 tour of India, he took a match-winning 5/28 in the second innings of the Johannesburg Test, helping the visitors secure a consolation victory.On India’s next visit to the country, he continued his impressive record by taking eight wickets in the opening Test of the series in Centurion.Shami’s last appearance in Test cricket came in the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord’s. Injuries later marred his career and he was left out of the Indian squad after the 2025 Champions Trophy before deciding to end his red-ball journey.