Big win for LSG as Lucknow gets this star India cricketer, his name is…. News24 –
In what could be one of the most notable pre-season shake-ups, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are on the verge of securing veteran India pacer Mohammed Shami from Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). The trade, expected to be an all-cash deal worth Rs 10 crore, mirrors the amount SRH invested in him during the IPL 2025 mega auction.
This move signals intent from both franchises – SRH look ready to reset their bowling core, while LSG aim to strengthen a pace attack crippled by injuries.
Shami’s Tough Season at SRH
Shami’s stint with SRH in IPL 2025 didn’t unfold as planned. Struggling for rhythm and match fitness, he managed just 6 wickets in 9 games, conceding runs at over 11 per over – the most expensive season of his IPL career.
After missing IPL 2024 due to injury, Shami couldn’t rediscover the lethal form that made him one of the most effective powerplay bowlers during his years with Gujarat Titans. Under Daniel Vettori’s leadership, SRH reassessed his long-term role in the squad, ultimately deciding that a fresh pace setup may serve them better going into 2026.
Why LSG Want Shami
For LSG, the decision is driven by necessity as much as strategy. Their Indian fast-bowling group – Avesh Khan, Mayank Yadav, and Mohsin Khan spent most of the previous season in recovery mode, leaving the team short of firepower. Frequent injuries and inconsistency forced LSG into experimentation, often impacting their balance and results.
Shami’s arrival offers exactly what they lacked:
- Experience across phases, especially in the powerplay
- A reliable new-ball wicket-taker
- Leadership for a young, injury-prone pace unit
Despite a tough IPL 2025, Shami’s recent domestic form has been nothing short of spectacular. Representing Bengal in the Ranji Trophy, he has already claimed 15 wickets in two matches, emerging as the spearhead of their attack. He is also set to play the upcoming fixture against Assam, further boosting confidence in his fitness and rhythm.
A Seasoned IPL Campaigner
At 35, Shami remains one of the most respected fast bowlers in the league. Across 119 IPL matches, he has picked up 133 wickets, delivering impactful spells for multiple franchises including – Kolkata Knight Riders, Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings, Gujarat Titans and Sunrisers Hyderabad.
His experience and proven ability to perform under pressure make him an attractive acquisition for LSG as they rebuild their pace battery ahead of IPL 2026.
What This Move Means
For SRH, this trade is a calculated decision to reshape their bowling lineup and free up resources. For LSG, it is a proactive step toward ensuring stability and experience – two factors they sorely missed last season.
If the deal is finalized, Shami’s addition could provide the much-needed spark in LSG’s quest to make a deeper playoff run in IPL 2026.
With the transfer window heating up and retention deadlines approaching, this move might just be the start of a busy pre-season across franchises.