Mohammed Shami confronts retirement talk as Ajit Agarkar denies comeback chance

Mohammed Shami is one of the best fast bowlers in the world, but the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee has constantly overlooked him despite his magnificent performances in domestic cricket. Indian cricketers are often told to play in the Ranji Trophy, Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy to stand a chance to become part of the national team. 

However, in Shami's case, there is no clarity on the selection criteria, and the decision-makers have failed to provide a clear answer on his continued omission despite India struggling in Test cricket. His last international game was the Champions Trophy Final in 2025, while his previous Test match appearance came in 2023.

He picked up 67 wickets across domestic tournaments and even accused Agarkar of not communicating with him, a charge denied by the e chairman of selectors. He will now represent Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League 2026, and the veteran is not ready to announce retirement from international cricket.

"The day I get tired, I will retire. But I am not thinking about retirement right now because such thoughts can impact your game. If you start thinking negatively, it means you are tired and bored. I will leave cricket the day I wake up feeling bored. However, I am not bored or lazy. I am enjoying my cricket," Shami said on The Shubhankar Mishra Show.

Shami is now focusing on the IPL 2026 after being traded to LSG from Sunrisers Hyderabad. He was bought by the Sunrisers for INR 10 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction but managed just six wickets from 9 matches.

"I will give my 100 percent and try to meet the expectations. I can't change my luck. Lucknow has trusted me, and I will give my all. When you get the results after preparations, you feel satisfied. I am more concerned about my rhythm rather than about my performance in domestic cricket," he mentioned.