New Delhi: Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami emphasised the importance of regular domestic cricket and maintaining peak fitness after delivering a standout performance that helped Lucknow Super Giants secure a crucial win in the Indian Premier League 2026.
Speaking after the match against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Hyderabad, Shami said staying connected with the game through domestic competitions had helped him maintain rhythm and sharpness. He explained that consistent match practice and physical fitness are essential for players to refine their skills and perform at the highest level.
The experienced pacer delivered a clinical spell, finishing with impressive figures of two wickets for nine runs and bowling 18 dot balls. His disciplined performance played a key role in restricting the opposition and securing momentum for Lucknow.
Shami said the victory was especially important for the team after suffering a defeat in their previous outing. According to him, bouncing back quickly in a long tournament like the IPL is crucial for maintaining confidence and building momentum.
Reflecting on his approach to the game, the fast bowler stressed that both skill and experience are vital at the elite level of cricket. He noted that maintaining top physical condition allows players to continuously work on improving their techniques and adapting to different match situations.
Shami also highlighted the importance of understanding pitch conditions and adjusting bowling strategies accordingly. He revealed that he deliberately used more slower deliveries in the match after observing their effectiveness on the surface.
Recalling his familiarity with conditions in Hyderabad from a previous stint with Sunrisers Hyderabad, Shami said he had already seen how variations such as slower balls could trouble batters. Observing similar tactics being used successfully by opposing bowlers further convinced him to incorporate them into his own strategy.
His performance proved decisive as Lucknow secured an important win, reinforcing the impact of experience, preparation and adaptability in high pressure matches.
