Mohammed Shami plays down retirement talks amid IPL 2026

India’s veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami has downplayed retirement talks amid IPL 2026. Shami, who will represent Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2026, said he is not even thinking of calling it a day. 

Shami has performed consistently in the domestic circuit for Bengal but he has been continuously ignored by the Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel.

Shami didn’t have a great run in IPL 2025, taking six wickets in nine matches for Sunrisers Hyderabad at an average of 56.16 and a high economy rate of 11.23.

However, Shami scalped 37 wickets in seven Ranji Trophy matches of the previous season at an average of 16.73 and played a key role in taking Bengal to the semifinal of the tournament.

“When I get tired, I will call it a day. But I am not even thinking of retirement right now because such thoughts pull you down. If this thought crosses your mind, it means you are already tired,” Shami said while speaking on The Shubhankar Mishra Show.

“And if you are tired, it means you are bored. And I have said this earlier, too. I will leave cricket the day I wake up and decide to get bored. So yeah, the day I feel lazy or get bored, I will leave,” Shami said.

“But neither am I bored nor am I lazy. I am enjoying. Results are good and positive,” Shami added.

Shami said he will keep giving his 100% on the field and in the practice sessions.

“As a bowler, I will give my 100 per cent. I will perform my responsibilities and try to meet the expectations set for me. Rest, I cannot change my luck. All I can contribute is with my attitude and determination,” Shami said.

Shami will be in action when LSG begins their IPL 2026 campaign against the Delhi Capitals on 1st April at Lucknow.