"Mohammed Shami is a real threat": LSG director provides positive update ahead of RCB match

Mohammed Shami has been impressive since joining the Lucknow Super Giants for the Indian Premier League 2026. Tom Moody, who is the franchise's Global Cricket Director, hailed the veteran Indian pacer for his wisdom and leadership characteristics. Shami has been out of the Indian National Cricket Team for a long time, but it has not impacted his performance for the LSG, and the veteran has taken 4 wickets from as many matches at an economy rate of 6.2.

"Shami is a world-class bowler. He was exceptional in domestic cricket and has started strongly in the IPL. He is looking strong. We know about his skills with the ball, and he can swing it both ways. He is a real threat in powerplay overs," Moody said on the eve of their match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Moody rates Shami highly, and it is not just because of his on-field performances. 

"Shami has been terrific and a senior bowler in our ranks. He has wisdom and leadership qualities, and he is bringing all his experience to the table for the team. He is a durable bowler who can swing the ball both ways. His pace is up, and he is bowling in the high 130s, which is good. Credit to him for his peak condition," he added.

Moody is not worried about Nicholas Pooran's form, with the batter accumulating 41 runs in 4 matches at a strike rate of 85.

"Nicky is aware of his slow batting. We have confidence in his abilities. The class is permanent, and I am sure he would enjoy batting on a good surface in the next match. The size of the ground is small, and it is a tonic that Nicky needs," he explained.

Moody revealed that pacers Mayank Yadav and Mohsin Khan are fit. "Our medical team has worked hard on the fitness of Mayank Yadav and Mohsin (Khan). They are ready to play. Mohsin will have another fitness test tomorrow. Mayank is ready to go. He has worked hard behind the scenes. Our bowlers have done well, but the batters haven't scored enough runs to support them," he concluded.