Veteran Indian fast bowler Muhammad Shami Strongly denying the growing retirement rumours, Artan stated that he is motivated and far from taking time off from his career. Speaking before the first match of his new franchise Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026Shami emphasized that thoughts of retirement did not cross his mind.
Shami, who interacts with Shubhankar Mishra on his YouTube channel, said that retirement is something he associates with boredom or exhaustion — neither of which he currently feels. According to him, as long as he is enjoying the game and getting results, walking away is not an option. His words come amid growing speculation that he will be out of the national team from March 2025.
Shami last represented India in the final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Despite his consistent domestic performances since then, he has remained out of the selectors’ plans, sparking controversy among fans and pundits.
“I’ll say one day when I’m tired. But I’m not thinking of retiring now because that kind of thinking gets you down. If that’s what crosses your mind, you’re already tired. If you’re tired, it means you’re tired. I’ve said it before. The day I wake up, I’ll retire from cricket. I’ll go, but I don’t miss it, and I don’t enjoy being lazy.” Shami Shubhankar said on the Mishra Show.
BCCI’s selection snub raises questions over Mohammad Shami’s retirement
Shami’s continued exclusion from the Indian squad has raised eyebrows, especially given his domestic record. In the 2025-26 season, the experienced pacer took an impressive 67 wickets across formats, cementing his reputation as one of India’s most reliable seamers.
However, the selectors of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) are focused on looking after young fast bowlers. This change has led to the conclusion that management is slowly moving away from top players like Shami.
Shami himself said that he was disappointed with the lack of contact with the voters. He revealed that there is no clarity about his position in the team, leaving him uncertain despite his strong form.
Adding to the complication, Shami has ruled out major tours, including the Australia and England series, citing that he is not fully recovered from a leg injury. While these decisions are made to ensure long-term fitness, they may inadvertently affect his chances of selection.
Shami’s new start in IPL 2026 with Lucknow Super Giants
Ready to represent Shami in IPL 2026 Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)Hoping to open a new chapter in his T20 career. After an ordinary performance against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in IPL 2025 – managing just six wickets in nine matches – the right-arm pacer is eager to prove his worth once again.
Shami admitted that while luck plays a role in cricket, his focus remains on effort, discipline and attitude. He emphasized that he is committed to do his best for Lucknow and meet the expectations placed on him by the franchise.
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The move to LSG offers him a renewed platform to showcase his skills in a high-pressure environment. As the IPL is a crucial stage for players awaiting a national comeback, a strong performance could reignite his international career.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his international future, Shami remains grounded and focused on his game. He stressed that maintaining personal satisfaction and rhythm is more important than dwelling on past achievements or selection failures.
Instead of counting the number of matches played in domestic cricket, Shami emphasized the importance of staying in rhythm and maintaining high performance levels. According to him, after that rhythm is achieved, thoughts about the future naturally follow.
“As a bowler, I will give my 100 percent. I will fulfill my responsibilities and try to live up to the expectations. Relax, I can’t change my luck. I can only contribute with my attitude and determination. If Lucknow has trusted me, I will give my all. Again, whenever you play, I come back based on all my preparation. I focused not on how well I bowled, but on how good my rhythm was. Shami added.
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