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Indian cricket has been rocked by a wave of high-profile exits, with both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli announcing their retirement from Test cricket within a span of five days on May 7 and May 12, respectively. As the nation reels from the twin farewells, another name has unexpectedly surfaced in the rumour mill: Mohammed Shami.
The veteran pacer, who has been battling fitness issues since his Achilles tendon injury post the 2023 ODI World Cup, found himself at the centre of speculation suggesting he, too, might be calling time on his red-ball career. However, Shami wasted no time in responding to these reports and did so with unfiltered emotion.
“You’ve Destroyed My Future” – Shami Fires Back on Instagram
Taking to Instagram, Shami posted a screenshot of a media report falsely claiming his retirement was imminent. In a scathing message written in Hindi, he expressed frustration over the persistent rumours. Loosely translated, he said:
“Very well done, sir. Count your own working days before focusing on mine. People like you have ruined my future. At least say something good once in a while. This is today’s worst story—sorry.”
Form and Fitness Under Scrutiny
The rumours gained traction due to Shami’s lacklustre IPL 2025 performance for Sunrisers Hyderabad, where he has managed only six wickets in nine matches, averaging 56.17. While selectors typically don’t weigh IPL stats heavily when picking Test squads, concerns have been raised over his rhythm and recovery. A BCCI official anonymously stated that Shami has been struggling to complete run-ups and maintain consistency.
Still Hope for a Comeback
Despite the noise, it’s worth remembering that Shami played a key role in India’s recent ICC Champions Trophy win in Dubai. His experience and class in the longer format remain unmatched when fit. As the Indian team enters a new era post-Kohli and Rohit, the veteran seamer’s future may hinge on his physical recovery.
