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India Coach Lauds Shami's Continued Domestic Cricket Commitment

India's coaching staff has expressed satisfaction with pacer Mohammed Shami's decision to continue playing white-ball cricket for Bengal and the Indian Premier League despite his recent retirement from Test cricket. The move reflects Shami's ongoing dedication to competitive cricket at the domestic level.

LSN India · 7 November 2026

Mohammed Shami's transition from Test cricket has been met with approval from India's coaching setup, with head coach Gautam Morkel highlighting the veteran pacer's sustained commitment to the game. Shami, who recently stepped back from the longest format, remains actively involved in limited-overs cricket for his state and franchise obligations.

Morkel expressed satisfaction with the manner in which Shami continues to approach domestic competitions, noting that the 34-year-old pacer maintains competitive intensity despite his reduced international workload. The coach's remarks underscore the value placed on Shami's experience and professionalism within India's cricket ecosystem.

Shami's continued participation in white-ball formats allows him to remain sharp for potential IPL contributions while serving as a mentor figure for younger Bengal cricketers. His presence in domestic cricket also provides valuable exposure management for the player as he navigates the next phase of his career.

The decision to continue playing domestically reflects a broader pattern among experienced Indian cricketers who gradually transition out of the Test format while maintaining involvement in limited-overs competitions. Shami's case demonstrates how players can extend their careers meaningfully beyond international retirement.