experienced indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami He has strongly rejected the growing rumors of retirement, stating that he is still motivated and is not devoting time to his career. Speaking before the first match of his new franchise in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026Shami insisted that the thought of retirement had not come to his mind.
While interacting with Shubhankar Mishra on his YouTube channel, Shami said that retirement is something he associates with boredom or fatigue – neither of which he feels currently. According to him, as long as he enjoys the game and produces results, quitting is not an option. His comments come amid growing speculation over his absence from the national team from March 2025.
Shami last represented India during the final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Since then, despite consistent domestic performances, he has been out of the selectors’ plans, sparking debate among fans and experts.
“When I get tired, I will stop it. But I am not even thinking about retirement right now because such thoughts pull you down. If this thought comes to your mind, it means you are already tired. And if you are tired, it means you are bored. And I have said this before too. The day I wake up and decide to be bored, I will quit cricket. So yes, the day I feel lazy or bored. I will leave. But I am neither bored nor lazy. The results are good and positive.” Shami said in The Shubhankar Mishra Show.
Questions raised on Mohammed Shami’s retirement due to BCCI selection irregularities
Shami’s continued exclusion from the Indian team has raised questions, especially considering his excellent domestic record. During the 2025-26 season, the veteran fast bowler took an impressive 67 wickets across all 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 focusing on grooming young fast bowlers. This change has given the impression that the management is slowly moving on from senior players like Shami.
Shami himself has expressed disappointment over the lack of communication from the selectors. He revealed that there is a lack of clarity regarding his position in the team, leaving him uncertain despite maintaining strong form.
Adding to the complication, Shami had opted out of major tours including the Australia and England series, citing lack of full recovery from a leg injury. Although these decisions were made to ensure long-term fitness, they may have inadvertently impacted his chances of selection.
Shami’s new start with Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2026
Shami is all set to represent in IPL 2026 Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)Hoping to turn a new page in his T20 career. After an ordinary stint with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in IPL 2025 – where he managed to take just six wickets in nine matches – the right-arm pacer is eager to prove his worth once again.
Shami admitted that luck plays a role in cricket, but his primary focus remains on effort, discipline and attitude. He stressed that he is committed to giving his best for Lucknow and living up to the expectations placed on him by the franchise.
Also read: IPL 2026 – Ravindra Jadeja reveals why he didn’t talk to MS Dhoni after leaving CSK
The move to LSG gives him a new platform to showcase his abilities in a high-pressure environment. Since the IPL is an important stage for players making a comeback to the national level, a strong performance could potentially rejuvenate their international careers.
Despite uncertainties over his international future, Shami has remained grounded and focused on his game. He highlighted that personal satisfaction and maintaining momentum is more important than focusing on past achievements or selection failures.
Instead of counting the number of matches played in domestic cricket, Shami stressed the importance of staying in rhythm and maintaining top performance levels. According to him, once that rhythm is achieved, thoughts about the future come naturally.
“As a bowler, I will give my 100 per cent. I will play my responsibilities and try to live up to the expectations set for me. Rest, 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. Still, whenever you are playing, the main element is satisfaction. Will I get returns based on all the preparations I have done? I didn’t focus on that I How much I have played domestically, but also the fact that my form has been in. Well, if that is the case, then I will start thinking about the future.” Added Shami.
Also read: IPL 2026 – Ravindra Jadeja gets emotional against his former franchise CSK; the video went viral
