Mohammed Shami scripts IPL history, sets big record despite LSG defeat
Mohammed Shami etched his name in IPL history by taking his fifth first-ball wicket, becoming the first bowler to achieve this feat. Despite his impressive performance, Lucknow Super Giants suffered a six-wicket defeat against Delhi Capitals. Shami, out of the national setup for over a year, reiterated his commitment to playing as long as he enjoys the game.
NEW DELHI: Veteran India pacer Mohammed Shami continued to make a strong statement, even as Lucknow Super Giants slumped to a six-wicket defeat against Delhi Capitals in their IPL 2026 season opener at the Ekana Stadium on Wednesday. Shami, who has been out of the national setup for over a year, struck with the very first ball of the Capitals’ chase, dismissing KL Rahul for a golden duck. In doing so, he etched his name into the record books, becoming the first bowler in IPL history to claim five first-ball wickets — a feat unmatched in the tournament’s 18-year history.
He finished with tidy figures of 1 for 28 in four overs, once again underlining his rhythm and control despite LSG’s overall struggles. His early strike set the tone as LSG reduced Delhi to 26 for 4, but the advantage slipped away soon after. Earlier ahead of the match, Shami had made it clear that retirement is far from his mind.
Speaking recently, the 35-year-old reiterated that he would only step away from the game when he feels “bored,” not due to age, injuries or selection snubs. “The day I feel lazy or bored, I will quit. But I am neither bored nor lazy.
I am enjoying the game,” he said, reaffirming his hunger. Most first-ball wicket in IPL 5 - Mohammed Shami 3 - Pravin Kumar 3 - Umesh Yadav 3 - Trent Boult 3 - Lasith Malinga 3 - Bhuvneshwar Kumar 3 - Ashok Dinda 3 - Pat Cummins Despite his efforts, LSG could not capitalise. A fighting unbeaten 70 from Sameer Rizvi, alongside Tristan Stubbs (39), saw Delhi Capitals recover from early trouble and chase down 142 with ease.