Fast bowler Mohammed Shami has spoken against some of the experts who have diminished Lucknow Super Giants’ (LSG) chances at the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. This comes before the Lucknow-based outfit play their opening game of the new season against Delhi Capitals at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium on Wednesday, 1 April.
Whilst speaking on Shubhankar Mishra's podcast, Shami was asked about his team’s chances for the upcoming season.
"Where do you see LSG this year in the IPL? Because some of your 'big' teammates have not rated the team so far," Shami was asked by the host.
In reply, the 35-year-old clearly stated that he does not agree with any of the outside noise about LSG’s chances and instead wants to prove his point by performing well for his new franchise.
“My words will hurt - you are asking that type of question. People feel bad. Nobody becomes great by rating or giving numbers to somebody,” Shami replied.
Shami has been an IPL veteran, having previously represented five franchises since making his debut in 2013. The right-arm fast bowler has now joined LSG ahead of the 2026 season in a trade with Sunrisers Hyderabad in an all-cash deal.
LSG would be relying on Shami to come good and lead their bowling unit this season since they have an inexperienced department consisting of the likes of Mayank Yadav, Prince Yadav, and Mohsin Khan, amongst others.
The Rishabh Pant-led side come into the 2026 IPL as one of the underdogs, considering the likes of Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Mumbai Indians are deemed to be the favourites for the trophy. However, they have a top order that is one of the strongest in the tournament.
LSG bolster a batting lineup consisting of Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram, Nicholas Pooran, along with captain Pant in their top four. Their success in this year’s tournament will therefore heavily rely on the form of the aforementioned top four.
