Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) received a significant boost during IPL 2026 when veteran pacer Mohammed Shami delivered an exceptional performance against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on April 5. The 35-year-old bowler showcased his class with the ball, taking two wickets while conceding just 9 runs in four overs. His ability to bowl 18 dot balls made it extremely challenging for SRH’s batsmen to score, especially considering the nature of T20 cricket where runs often flow freely.
Shami started the game strongly by dismissing Abhishek Sharma for a duck in the very first over. He followed this up by taking the wicket of Travis Head in the third over, putting immediate pressure on SRH’s batting lineup. His performance was not only about pace but also about smart bowling and experience.
Smart Bowling with Experience
Shami demonstrated his intelligence on the field by mixing his pace effectively and maintaining impeccable line and length. He understood the conditions well and used the pitch to his advantage. His ability to adapt to the slow and sticky surface was key to his success.
Mohammed Shami shared his insights on the match:
“The pitch was slow, a bit sticky. But when it comes to line and length on the new ball, it is very important. If you give it wide and on the fuller side, they will surely smash it for boundaries.”
He added:
“You have to adapt, it’s important to take wickets. I was here last year and was used to a lot of slower balls. All the opponents use it a lot, and I thought why not we used it as well.”
Shami’s use of slower balls and variations in pace proved effective in troubling the batsmen. His experience at the Hyderabad ground also played a crucial role in his performance.
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Struggles
Despite his impressive performance, Shami remained humble about his form. He acknowledged the fluctuations he has experienced throughout the season.
He said:
“I am not a machine, and there will always be ups and downs in my season. In the last few years, I have done my best performance, and even if people have not noticed it, it does not mean that my form has dropped. I always try to produce the best in any condition.”
Shami also emphasized the importance of staying fit and playing domestic matches to maintain his skills.
“If you want to play, then it’s important to be in touch with the game. When you’re fit, you can actually improve your skills. That is why I was keeping myself in touch with the game by playing all the domestic matches.”
He praised the team environment and his relationship with coach Bharat Arun.
“We have good bonding with everyone. Lucknow feels like my second home now. So, it takes only a little time to match up.”
The victory for LSG was particularly significant as it marked their first win of the season after a loss in their opening fixture. Shami highlighted the importance of this win:
“We have lost our previous game, and hence winning this game was extremely important to build some momentum.”
