Indian speedster Mohammed Shami, who represented Sunrisers Hyderabad in the last edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, will likely to be seen featuring for the new franchise in the upcoming edition of the cash-rich league. The 35-year-old has reportedly attracted serious interest from both Delhi Capitals (DC) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
Cricbuzz reported that the veteran Indian pacer has attracted serious interest from both Delhi Capitals (DC) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), making him one of the most sought-after names ahead of IPL 2026. The report further stated that the Hyderabad-based franchise is evaluating whether an all-cash trade or a release into the auction pool would align better with their long-term plans.
Mohammed Shami's performance in IPL 2025
Shami, who made his cricketing comeback before the IPL 2025, had a forgetful campaign for SRH, where he managed to pick six wickets while conceding at an economy of 11.23 after being bought for Rs 10 crore, which fell well below the franchise’s expectations. However, Shami has picked up 133 wickets in 119 matches, including outstanding seasons for the Gujarat Titans in 2022 and 2023.
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How Shami can be a wise pick for DC and LSG
The Delhi franchise leaned heavily on overseas ace Mitchell Starc last season, as Mohit Sharma, Dushmantha Chameera and Mukesh Kumar couldn’t provide steady support. Bringing in Shami would give them much-needed experience and a reliable wicket-taker, as long as they free up the right spots in their squad.
Meanwhile, Lucknow Super Giants are also in the market for fast bowlers after a disappointing campaign. Their main quick, Mayank Yadav, missed the entire IPL 2025, leaving the side dependent on Avesh Khan, Akash Deep, Prince Yadav and Shamar Joseph. None of them could consistently trouble opposition batters. In that situation, Shami would be a major upgrade, offering sharper new-ball impact and better control through the middle overs, and that's exactly what LSG need as they look to rebuild.
Shami's last cricketing outing
Shami's last cricketing outing came for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26, where he picked up 15 wickets in three outings. The speedster last donned India jersey in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where he picked up nine wickets in five outings that helped Rohit Sharma-led India to win the title, defeating New Zealand in the final at Dubai International Stadium in Dubai.