![Mohammed Shami [Source: AFP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1794056995586_Mohammed_Shami.jpg?type=hq)
Mohammed Shami [Source: AFP]
Mohammed Shami shocked the entire cricketing fraternity earlier this week by announcing his retirement from Tests. While the legendary Indian fast bowler has not been considered for Test selection since mid-2023, he remains one of the most proficient wicket-taking bowlers in Indian domestic first-class competitions like the Ranji Trophy.
Bowing out of the game on the day of completing 13 years since his format debut, Shami is now backed by former Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin to become Team India coach in some capacity.
Mohammad Azharuddin urges BCCI to appoint Shami as India coach
Former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin wants Mohammed Shami to take up a coaching role to impart his knowledge on Indian youngsters going ahead. Azharuddin also compared Shami’s bowling talent with that of former captain and World Cup winning all-rounder Kapil Dev.
While speaking with ANI, he said, “I hope and pray he imparts his knowledge to the younger players and I also sincerely hope that the board will recognise his services and take his services in future for coaching or any other job. Because I think he is one of the finest fast bowlers I think you have seen after Kapil Paji. I mean there is no comparison you cannot compare Kapil Paji but he was in the same mould.”
Mohammad Azharuddin further urged the BCCI to appoint Shami in coaching capacity to help the next generation of Indian cricketing talent. According to him, a coach like Shami can help the young Indian fast bowlers to secure India’s pace future.
He explained, “I hope the board BCCI really I mean gives him a chance to really help the youngsters who are coming up. There’s no dearth of youngsters fast bowlers in India now and I sincerely hope and pray that his experience over the years will be good for the Indian team in future, for the Indian fast bowlers in the future.”
Can Mohammed Shami be a good coach for India?
Mohammed Shami announced his retirement from Test cricket at the age of 36. While he has stepped away from the format after over three years of wait, the cricketer is still aspiring to make his return to India’s ODI setup, likely before the 2026 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in South Africa next year.
Shami, however, has expressed no desire in taking up a coaching role in any capacity, despite his seniority in international as well as in domestic cricket.
With Gautam Gambhir becoming India’s head coach at such a young age, it is quite possible for the legendary Indian speedster to land a coaching gig himself, if the BCCI deems it necessary.
Ultimately, Mohammed Shami’s vast experience and understanding of fast bowling could make him a valuable addition to India’s coaching setup. However, whether he chooses to pursue coaching after his playing career and whether the BCCI considers him for such a role remain to be seen.
