New Delhi: Experienced Indian fast bowler Muhammad Shami continued to make a strong statement, even as Lucknow Supergiants suffered a six-wicket defeat against Delhi Capitals in their IPL 2026 season opener at the Ekna Stadium on Wednesday.Shami, who has been out of the national set-up for over a year, dismissed KL Rahul for a golden duck on the very first ball of the Capitals’ chase. In doing so, he etched his name into the record books, becoming the first bowler in IPL history to take a first-ball five-wicket haul – a feat unprecedented in the tournament’s 18-year history.
He once again demonstrated his rhythm and control despite LSG’s overall struggles, finishing with clean figures of 1 for 28 from four overs. His early strike set the tone as LSG reduced Delhi to 26 for 4, but the advantage slipped soon after.Before the match, Shami made it clear that retirement is far from his mind. Speaking recently, the 35-year-old reiterated that he would only walk away from the game when he felt “bored”, not because of age, injury or selection. “The day I feel lazy or bored, I will quit. But I am neither bored nor lazy. I am enjoying the game,” he said, confirming his appetite.
Highest first ball wicket in IPL
- 5 – Muhammad Shami
- 3 – Parveen Kumar
- 3 – Umesh Yadav
- 3 – Trent Boult
- 3 – Lasith Malinga
- 3 – Bhuvneshwar Kumar
- 3 – Ashoka Danda
- 3 – Pat Cummins
Despite their efforts, LSG could not invest. Sameer Rizvi’s unbeaten 70, along with Tristan Stubbs (39), rescued Delhi Capitals from early trouble and chased down 142 with ease.
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Will LSG bounce back in future matches despite the loss?
LSG’s problems started with a disappointing batting early in the evening. Partnerships were hard to come by as the DC bowlers, led by Lungi Ngidi and T Natarajan, dismantled the lineup to restrict them to 141 in 18.4 overs.Although the result did not go in their favour, Shami’s milestone and consistent form offered a major positive for LSG. As questions remain over his absence from the Indian team, the veteran fast bowler is letting his performance do the talking – and history is taking note.
