Mohammed Shami played a crucial role in the Indian Premier League 2026 match between the Lucknow Super Giants and Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 5 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium.
After earning the Player of the Match award, the experienced seamer remained composed and spoke honestly about his outing. He delivered a tight and impactful spell, striking early to remove key batters and put Hyderabad under pressure. Shami recorded figures of 2 for 9 in his four overs, dismissing Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head, which significantly weakened the opposition’s top order.
“I’m not a machine my performance can fluctuate over a season. I’ve done well in recent years, even if it hasn’t always been recognised. Still, I consistently strive to give my best,” Shami said, as quoted by Hindustan Times.
The pacer joined Lucknow from Hyderabad in a pre-auction deal worth INR 10 crore ahead of IPL 2026. His IPL 2025 campaign was disrupted by injuries and inconsistent form, limiting his effectiveness. Reflecting on his turnaround, Shami credited regular match time and better fitness for helping him regain his rhythm. He added that consistent opportunities in the middle have restored his confidence and allowed him to deliver with greater control in the ongoing tournament.
“If you want to compete, staying connected with the game is crucial. Being fit allows you to focus on improving your skills. That’s why I participated in all the domestic matches,” Shami revealed.
Shami said he focused on variations, especially slower balls, after seeing their effectiveness in his and opponents’ games. At 35, he stressed that experience and adaptability are important.
He also highlighted feeling comfortable in LSG’s team environment. After an opening loss, their recent win was vital for momentum. Shami will return on Thursday, April 9, against the Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens.
“Skill and experience matter. Lucknow feels like home, so settling in was easy. After losing the last game, this win was crucial for momentum,” he concluded.
