Mohammed Shami's New Delivery Shines in LSG's Victory Over SRH
Shami's Innovative Bowling Technique
The recent success of Mohammed Shami against Abhishek Sharma can be attributed to a newly developed delivery, as disclosed by Carl Crowe, the spin bowling coach for Lucknow Super Giants. This innovative technique was crafted just days prior to the match in collaboration with bowling coach Bharat Arun.
Shami, who had been sidelined, showcased exceptional performance for LSG after a stellar domestic season with Bengal, achieving an impressive bowling figure of 2/9 in four overs, which included 18 dot balls, effectively dismantling the formidable Sunrisers Hyderabad top order.
Crowe mentioned, "Bharat Arun and Shami devised a new-ball variation just four days before the match. He utilized this specific delivery to take down Abhishek."
The delivery was a slower, wider ball that cleverly set up the top T20 batter.
Shami strategically adjusted his fielding positions, moving the deep third man to deep point, and then surprised Sharma with a yorker aimed at the leg-stump.
On the last ball of the over, he added another fielder on the off side, removed the slip, and bowled a slower delivery wide of the left-hander, prompting a drive that led to a thick outside edge caught by M Siddharth at short third man.
In his subsequent over, Shami also dismissed Travis Head, further restricting SRH to a total of 156/9. LSG clinched the match by five wickets, marking their first victory of the season.
Shami had an outstanding domestic season in 2025-26, taking 68 wickets across various formats—16 in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, 15 in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, and 37 in the Ranji Trophy.
Despite his impressive performances, he remains overlooked by the national selectors, led by coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar, even as calls for his inclusion in the white-ball setup grow ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
Crowe highlighted Shami's eagerness to learn as a key factor in his success.
"For all cricketers, regardless of age, there’s always room to learn new skills. The fact that he mastered this skill in just four days and executed it in a match to secure a wicket speaks volumes about both Bharat’s coaching and Shami’s mindset," Crowe stated.
"As a senior player, his willingness to develop new skills and enhance his game is commendable. That attitude is remarkable."
Crowe also praised Rishabh Pant, describing him as an "empowering" leader.
"He definitely empowers his bowlers and is eager to hear their thoughts during team meetings, showing genuine interest in their perspectives and strategies. Personally, I have grown fond of him," Crowe remarked.
"One small yet significant thing he does is greet everyone in the room when he enters as captain, making each person feel welcomed and valued, which I appreciate about him."
Crowe expressed admiration for Pant's leadership style, noting, "He is a players-first captain based on my observations. He guides and offers suggestions when necessary, but he also has experienced players like Aiden Markram and Nicholas Pooran to assist him in that regard."
"I’ve been truly impressed with Rishabh. He genuinely desires the team's success. Recently, I heard him ask, ‘What else can I do for the team?’ When a leader thinks this way, players naturally follow suit," he added.
Mayank Yadav, another speedster, has yet to play for LSG, raising concerns about injuries. However, Crowe emphasized the strength of their pace attack, making it challenging for Yadav to secure a spot in the playing XI.
"Mayank is undoubtedly a fantastic bowler, but we currently have eight, nine, or even ten quality seamers. It’s a very competitive team to break into," he concluded.