Veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has dropped a major hint about his IPL future, suggesting he could turn out for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the upcoming season. The comments come after a tough IPL 2025 campaign with Kavya Maran-owned Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), who had signed him for a hefty ₹10 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction.
A rollercoaster IPL journey for Mohammed Shami
Ahead of the IPL 2025 retentions, Shami was released by Gujarat Titans (GT), a franchise where he had been central to their success. His move to SRH generated headlines, but the season didn’t go as planned. Returning to competitive cricket in January, Shami struggled for rhythm, finishing with just six wickets in nine matches. His dip in pace and accuracy raised concerns, eventually leading to his omission from India’s squads for both the England Test series and the Asia Cup 2025.
Shami opens up about his IPL future
Speaking to News24, Shami addressed speculation around his next move. He admitted he would welcome the chance to play for LSG but stressed that retention and release decisions lie with the franchises. “I’m ready to play for any team that raises the paddle for me (at the auction). There is nothing in my hands. It is IPL, the festival of cricket and it is entertainment for people. Whoever lifts the paddle for you, go along with them,” he said, underlining the auction’s unpredictability.
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Meanwhile for LSG, the timing of Shami’s exit from SRH could be perfect. The IPL 2025 campaign fr the Lucknow-based franchise was hampered by injuries to Mayank Yadav and Mohsin Khan, leaving Avesh Khan as the lone fit frontline pacer. Overseas signing Shamr Joseph never broke into the playing XI, highlighting the fragility of their pace stocks.
If fully fit, Shami’s new-ball swing, death-bowling experience and leadership could address LSG’s glaring bowling gaps. His inclusion would add both depth and authority to their attack.
The move, however, hinges on SRH’s retention call. Should they release him, Shami will return to the auction pool – where LSG could emerge as strong bidders.
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