Mohammed Shami, the artist who made fast bowling look like a calling

Mohammed Shami, the renowned Indian fast bowler, has announced his retirement from Test cricket, marking the end of a remarkable career. In an Instagram post, Shami expressed contentment but also a sense of longing and regret as he parted with the white jersey he had worn for 13 years. The lines in his farewell note were poetic, capturing the essence of love and longing.

Shami's journey began in his hometown of Sahaspur in western Uttar Pradesh, where he moved to Kolkata to pursue his passion for cricket. He trained diligently, honing his skills and dedicating himself to the sport. Shami's love for the game was unmatched, and he considered bowling to be his divine calling. He once said, "When you get deeply involved in something, a kind of junoon (obsession) sets in."

This passion for the game fueled his success, as he amassed an incredible 229 wickets in Test cricket at an impressive average of 27.71. Shami's bowling style was a work of art, characterized by his rhythmic run-up, precise wrist and finger coordination at release, and the ability to seame the ball with remarkable precision. His spells in Johannesburg, Centurion, and Perth are remembered as some of the most breathtaking moments in Test cricket.

Despite facing injuries, accusations, and even vitriolic trolling, Shami persevered and emerged victorious. He retired not because his desire had wavered, but because he realized he might not achieve the desired success in Test cricket. He knew that his retirement was necessary to protect himself from the pain of rejection. Shami's retirement does not mean the end of his cricketing journey, as he may continue to bowl in domestic matches.

However, his Test career will be remembered as one of the most artistic and captivating in Indian cricket history. His legacy will live on in the hearts of fans, who will always remember him for his love of the game and his dedication to wearing the whites.