Former Indian Test all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has praised Lucknow Super Giants’ team management for bringing in the services of veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami for IPL 2026. Shami has performed consistently in the domestic circuit for Bengal but he has been continuously ignored by the Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel.
Shami didn’t have a great run in IPL 2025, taking six wickets in nine matches for Sunrisers Hyderabad at an average of 56.16 and a high economy rate of 11.23.
However, Shami scalped 37 wickets in seven Ranji Trophy matches of the previous season at an average of 16.73 and played a key role in taking Bengal to the semifinal of the tournament.
Ashwin said on his YouTube Channel, “That was probably one of the best decisions that LSG have made. I think Shami and Lucknow was a match made in heaven. Mohammad Shami has been picked because they wanted that foreign power to remain. They brought Shami in to play Marsh, Markram and Pooran. I think Shami will do his job. Even now, when we see First-Class cricket, his swing is there and the ball is coming out nicely from his hand.”
The former off-spinner said LSG must play Sri Lankan spinner Wanindu Hasaranga. The mystery spinner was recently ruled out of the T20 World Cup with an injury.
“They must play Hasaranga. I spoke about Shahbaz, but Hasaranga can play in his place if you are expecting only two foreigners (batters). If there are three foreigners, it becomes necessary to use Shahbaz. According to me, the best option is to go with Wanindu Hasaranga and a foreign fast bowler, with Mohammad Shami and another Indian quick.”
The cricketer-turned-analyst said Ayush Badoni can perform the finisher role for LSG in the upcoming season.
“Ayush Badoni’s stock has definitely gone up since last year. He got a call-up for India as well. He has become a much more mature batter. He performed decently in the IPL last year, but I think it’s about time for Ayush Badoni to also step up. He is a very good player of spin.
“In this batting lineup, Ayush Badoni could just have that role of taking the innings all the way through and becoming that anchor. I agree anchors are not needed in T20 cricket these days, but he can become that player who can play 20 or 30 balls and finish the innings.”
LSG will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against the Delhi Capitals on 1st April at Lucknow.
