India's star pacer Mohammed Shami had a lacklustre Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Roped in for Rs 10 crore in the mega auction, Shami played nine games and managed to take just six wickets at an average of 56.16. Now, months ahead of the mini-auction, Shami is uncertain about whether SRH will retain him or his fast-bowling services will be up for grabs in the mini-auction. He said he is ready to play for any franchise in the upcoming IPL.
“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,” Shami told News24.
Shami’s IPL best came in his 30s
Shami's best IPL season came for Gujarat Titans (GT) in the 2023 edition. He was in sublime form and claimed 28 wickets from 17 games at an average of 18.64. He claimed two four-fers in the season and won the purple cap as well. In their maiden IPL-winning season, he claimed 20 wickets at an average of 24.40. He missed IPL 2024 due to injuries and was released by GT, who roped in Mohammed Siraj in the mega auction.
Shami’s IPL career
So far, Shami has represented five IPL franchises. In IPL 2013, he made his debut for Kolkata Knight Riders. Then, he played for Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) till 2018 where he wasn't a regular in the side. He played three seasons for Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) and bagged 58 wickets for them from 42 games. Overall, Shami has played 119 IPL games and claimed 133 wickets at an average of 28.18. Other than GT, he did not take a four-fer for any other franchise.
Will Shami be on top of LSG’s list if SRH release him?
In the upcoming auction, Shami may be on the list of a few franchises. However, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) may end up shelling out a big sum for him as their fast-bowling stocks are depleted. There is still no update on their young pace-bowling sensation Mayank Yadav. Also, they are likely to release Akash Deep who they roped in for a whopping Rs 8 crore.