Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami has officially moved to the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) after being traded by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. The veteran pacer, who was bought for ₹10 crore by SRH during the IPL 2025 mega auction, endured a disappointing season and failed to make the expected impact.
Underwhelming 2025 Season Leads to SRH Exit
Shami managed just six wickets in nine matches in IPL 2025, struggling with both rhythm and consistency. Despite being one of SRH’s most expensive signings last year, the 35-year-old could not deliver the breakthroughs the franchise hoped for.
He last played for India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final on March 9. Now, he joins LSG via an all-cash trade, keeping his contract value unchanged.
IPL’s Official Statement on the Trade
The IPL confirmed the transfer with a formal announcement:
“Veteran fast bowler Mohd Shami will represent the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) after a successful trade from Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Shami, acquired by SRH for INR 10 crore ahead of IPL 2025, will move to LSG at the same fee.”
The statement further highlighted the experience he brings:
“The senior pacer has played 119 IPL matches across five franchises since 2013. Before joining SRH, he was a key part of Gujarat Titans, winning the Purple Cap in 2023 with 28 wickets. Though he missed the 2024 season due to injury, he picked up 20 wickets during GT’s title-winning 2023 campaign.”
A Look Back at Shami’s IPL Journey
Early Years: KKR & Delhi Capitals
Shami made his IPL debut in 2013 with Kolkata Knight Riders, playing three games and taking one wicket.
He then moved to Delhi Capitals, spending four seasons (2014, 2016, 2017, 2018) with the franchise and picking up 20 wickets in 32 matches.
Rise with Punjab Kings
Punjab Kings bought him in the 2019 auction, and Shami delivered consistently, taking 58 wickets in 42 matches across the 2019, 2020, and 2021 seasons.
Peak Performance at Gujarat Titans
His most successful phase came with Gujarat Titans, where he claimed
- 20 wickets in IPL 2022, and
- 28 wickets in IPL 2023, winning the Purple Cap.
Even though GT finished runners-up in 2023, Shami was the tournament’s standout bowler.
Injury, Release & SRH Move
A foot injury ruled him out of IPL 2024, and GT released him before the IPL 2025 mega auction.
SRH picked him up for ₹10 crore, but he struggled throughout the season, eventually getting dropped from the playing XI.
Fresh Start at Lucknow Super Giants
With a new franchise and a new season ahead, Shami will hope to rediscover his rhythm and bring his experience to LSG’s pace attack. The 2026 season could be crucial for the veteran as he attempts to revive his IPL career after a difficult year.
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