Team India bowling coach Morne Morkel has given an emotional reaction to Indian fast bowler Mohammad Shami’s decision to retire from Test cricket. Remembering the time he spent with Shami, former South African fast bowler Morkel said Shami had helped him a great deal in his early days with the Indian team. He described Shami not only as an excellent bowler but also as a wonderful human being.
Speaking to broadcasters before the second ODI between India and New Zealand, Morkel said Shami was part of the team when he began working with the Indian side. Shami, he said, supported him a lot in understanding the atmosphere of the Indian dressing room and the team’s language. Morkel said having an experienced and skilled player like Shami in the team was very helpful for him. He said it was sad to see him bid farewell to Test cricket.
Time spent together in the Champions Trophy
Morne Morkel joined the Indian team in 2024 as part of head coach Gautam Gambhir’s coaching staff. Although he did not get the opportunity to work with Shami in the Test format, the two spent some time together during the 2025 Champions Trophy. It also remained Shami’s last tournament in the Indian jersey.
Impressive record of 229 wickets in 64 Tests
Mohammad Shami made his Test debut against the West Indies in 2013. In his 13-year Test career, he played 64 matches and took 229 wickets. Across all three formats, he has 462 international wickets to his name.
After retiring from Test cricket, Shami will continue to play limited-overs cricket. He will also continue to display his bowling skills for Bengal in domestic cricket and in the IPL. Morkel also praised Shami for bowling consistently in domestic cricket and for his passion for the game.
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