New Delhi: Veteran Indian pacer Mohammad Shami Lucknow Super Giants continued to make a strong statement despite suffering a six-wicket defeat at the hands of Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2026 season opener at the Ekana Stadium on Wednesday.Shami, who has been out of the national team for over a year, hit KL Rahul for a golden duck on the first ball of the Capitals’ chase. In the process, he etched his name in the record books, becoming the first bowler in IPL history to take five one-wicket hauls, a feat that is unparalleled in the 18-year history of the tournament.Although LSG’s overall performance was poor, he made 1 of 28 shots in four rounds, once again emphasizing his rhythm and control. His early goal set the tone as LSG reduced Delhi’s deficit to 26 points in 4, but the advantage was soon gone.Earlier before the match, Shami made it clear that he was not considering retirement at all. The 35-year-old reiterated in his recent speech that he will only leave the game when he is “bored” and not because of age, injury or choice. “The day I get lazy or bored, I quit. But I’m not bored or lazy. I enjoy the game,” he said, reaffirming his desire.
Most wickets taken with one ball in IPL
- 5 – Mohammad Shami
- 3 – Praveen Kumar
- 3-Umesh Yadav
- 3 – Trent Bolt
- 3 – Rath Malinga
- 3 – Bhuvneshwar Kumar
- 3 – Ashok Dinda
- 3 – Pat Cummins
Despite his efforts, LSG were unable to capitalize. Sameer Rizvi’s unbeaten 70-run knock along with Tristan Stubbs (39) saw Delhi Capitals recover from early troubles to chase down 142 with ease.LSG’s problems began earlier in the evening with a disappointing batting performance. DC’s bowlers, led by Lungi Ngidi and T Natarajan, struggled to contribute as they restricted the squad to 141 in 18.4 overs.While the results went against them, Shami’s milestone and continued form were a major positive for LSG. With the question of his absence from the Indian team still lingering, the veteran pacer is letting his performance speak for itself – and history is making its mark.
