India's ace pacer Mohammad Shami has rubbished rumours related to his retirement from International cricket. The pacer came up with a stern reply while addressing the retirement speculations after being left out of India's T20I squad for the Asia Cup.
Shami has had limited international cricket since the 2023 ODI World Cup, primarily due to fitness issues. He missed the T20 World Cup last year and was also not fit enough to be a part of India's Test squad for their tour of Australia in the winter.
He returned to the national team during the home T20 series against England, before appearing in the Champions Trophy 2025. However, he was once again ignored for the Indian Test team, which recently toured England.
Add The Sporting News as a preferred news source
Mohammad Shami rubbishes retirement rumours
In an interview with News24, Mohmmad Shami put forward a counter-question, asking if anybody has any issues with him playing for India.
"If someone has a problem, tell me, if it is like their lives become better if I take retirement. Tell me whose life have I become a rock in that you want me to retire? The day I get bored, I will leave," said Shami.
The Indian pacer has been left out of the T20I squad for the Asia Cup. Earlier, he was also excluded from India's Test side that toured England on fitness grounds.
READ: Asia Cup 2025: Format, teams and groups explained
Shami last featured for India during the Champions Trophy 2025 and will make a comeback to competitive cricket with the upcoming Duleep Trophy. The Zonal event would be key for the pacer's return to the national setup.
"You don't pick me, but I will keep working hard. You don't pick me in international, I will play domestic. I will keep playing somewhere or the other. You have to make these decisions when you start feeling bored. That is not the time for me now," he added.
What's ahead for Mohammad Shami?
The Indian pace star has been instrumental for India's success over the years. He, along with Jasprit Bumrah, has been the flag bearer of India's bowling attack and has led the side to several highs.
In his long and decorated career for India, Shami has featured in 108 ODIs, 64 Tests, and 25 T20Is. With more than 450 international wickets, he has been a stalwart of Indian cricket.
READ: Who will open for India in Asia Cup 2025?
The pacer's focus will now be on the upcoming Duleep Trophy, where he will feature for the East Zone as the leader of the attack. The tournament would be very crucial for the 34-year-old, playing a key role in his potential return to the Indian side.