Bengal head coach
Shukla, a former India all-rounder, shared his sentiments in a video posted to social media, noting that he and many others had hoped to see the 36-year-old return to the international stage to bid farewell while wearing the national jersey. Reflecting on the pacer's journey, Shukla remarked that while they had hoped for a different conclusion, it was not meant to be.
A legacy of hard work and dedication
Beyond his international achievements, Shukla lauded Shami for his unwavering commitment to domestic cricket. Despite his extensive experience at the highest level, Shami continued to represent Bengal in the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, and
Shami’s Test career was marked by significant success both at home and abroad. He proved particularly lethal in foreign conditions, claiming 145 wickets in 41 away Tests at an average of 30.33. On home soil, he was even more prolific, securing 76 wickets at an average of 22.1. His final appearance for the national team came during the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia.
Full circle for a Bengal stalwart
Recalling the early days of Shami’s career, Shukla reminisced about the fast bowler’s transition from the Bengal Under-23 setup to the senior Ranji Trophy squad. Having served as the captain when Shami first broke into the senior team, Shukla noted the poetic nature of the pacer’s career path, which began and ended within the
While his Test career has drawn to a close, Shami remains an active participant in white-ball cricket. He has been included in the 19-member Bengal squad for the upcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, which is scheduled to commence on November 14. Bengal is set to open their campaign against Karnataka at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, competing in Elite Group A alongside teams including Baroda, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
