Mohammed Shami of Lucknow Super Giants, left, during an IPL match against Delhi Capitals. (PTI Photo) NEW DELHI: India veteran Mohammed Shami continued his strong statement even as Lucknow Super Giants slumped to a six-wicket defeat against Delhi Capitals at the Ekana Stadium on Wednesday.Shami, who has been out of the national team for over a year, struck with the very first ball in the Capitals’ chase, dismissing KL Rahul for a golden duck. In doing so, he etched his name into the record books and became the first bowler in IPL history to take five wickets with the first ball – a feat unmatched in the tournament’s 18-year history.He finished with clean figures of 1 for 28 in four overs, again underlining his rhythm and control despite LSG’s overall struggles. His early knock set the tone as LSG reduced Delhi to 26 for 4, but the advantage faded soon after.Earlier before the match, Shami made it clear that retirement is far from his mind. The 35-year-old recently reiterated that he only retires from the game when he feels “bored”, not because of age, injuries or selection insults. “The day I feel lazy or bored, I’ll quit. But I’m neither bored nor lazy. I enjoy the game,” he said, reaffirming his hunger.
Most first ball wickets 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 failed to cash in. A fighting unbeaten 70 from Sameer Rizvi along with Tristan Stubbs (39) saw Delhi Capitals recover from their early struggles and chase down 142 with ease.LSG’s problems started earlier in the evening with disappointing batting. Contributions were hard to come by as the DC bowlers, led by Lungi Ngidi and T Natarajan, dismantled the line-up and restricted them to 141 in 18.4 overs.Although the result was not in their favour, Shami’s milestone and continued form offered a significant positive for LSG. While questions remain over his absence from the Indian side, the veteran pacer is letting his performances do the talking – and history is taking note.
