Not DC or KKR! Mohammed Shami’s IPL 2026 team almost confirmed in big twist
Mohammed Shami’s IPL 2026 future is becoming clearer with reports ruling out Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders as potential destinations. The veteran pacer now has a strong link with a new franchise and insiders suggest his next IPL home has almost been confirmed ahead of the mega season.
All eyes are on Mohammed Shami as the IPL retention window draws to a close on November 15 (Saturday). The fast bowler was bought by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) for an impressive Rs 10 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction, but his performance last season was disappointing. As a result, there were rumors that SRH would part ways with him. Many teams are keen to secure his services, with franchises such as Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Delhi Capitals (DC) reportedly interested in a potential trade. However, it looks like Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) emerged victorious from this fight.
LSG seems to have confirmed that Mohammed Shami is approaching to join their squad with a recent post on their X account. Seri shared a snapshot of Shami’s memorable throw to Ben Stokes, which resulted in his dismissal in the 2023 ODI World Cup match between India and England in the Group Stage. This match took place at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Stadium in Lucknow, which serves as LSG’s home ground.
Interestingly, the post did not feature Shami’s picture, only teasing fans about his imminent arrival.
For no reason I just think about this Ekana moment pic.twitter.com/qxn8XNl2Ei
— Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL) November 14, 2025
Additionally, LSG chose to release INR 27.25 crore by releasing players like Ravi Bishnoi, David Miller, Akash Deep and Shamar Joseph. While Miller and Bishnoi put in impressive performances, the two pacers had limited playing time. Mayank will not be released and Arjun Tendulkar’s trade with Mumbai Indians (MI) is also expected to go ahead.
Since LSG have already sold Shardul Thakur to MI, they are expected to have around INR 20 crore for the IPL 2026 auction.
The experienced pacer, who was bought for 10 billion Indian rupees last year, did not meet expectations. Shami struggled significantly and was eventually dropped by SRH. Ultimately, he participated in only 9 matches and took 6 wickets at an average of 56.16. The most worrying aspect, as well as his ongoing fitness problems, was his economy rate per run of 11.23.
Also read| IPL 2026 Eclipses Live Broadcast: At what time will it be announced? Where to watch online and on TV?
