Following the retirements of former Team India cricketers Ravichandran Ashwin and Cheteshwar Pujara, questions arose regarding the future of Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami. However, Shami has dismissed these rumors, stating he has no intention of retiring. During his statement, Shami took aim at those who have shown excessive interest in his retirement, delivering a strong message regarding his future in the sport.
Shami stated that he will continue playing as long as his morale remains high. In an interview, he said, “If anyone has a problem, let them tell me. Will my retirement make their lives better? Tell me, whose life have I become a burden to, that you want me to retire? The day I get bored, I’ll leave myself.” The fast bowler added, “Don’t select me, but I will keep working hard. If you don’t select me for international cricket, I will play domestic cricket. I will keep playing somewhere or the other.” Shami, 34, emphasized that the time for retirement has not yet arrived.
Shami also expressed that his dream of winning the ODI World Cup remains unfulfilled. He mentioned that the team came close in 2023 but didn’t win. He hopes to be there in 2027. Regarding his fitness, Shami noted that he has worked hard in the past two months, focusing on weight loss and bowling for extended periods. He stated that he still loves cricket immensely and will quit when his passion wanes. Shami last played international cricket in March. During the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL), he struggled to find his rhythm while bowling.