“Breathtaking”: Justin Langer Awestruck by Mohammed Shami’s Yorkers in LSG Training Camp
India veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami is signaling a fierce return to competitive franchise cricket, using the upcoming Indian Premier League season as his platform to reclaim a spot on the national roster. The 35-year-old pacer, recently acquired by the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), demonstrated elite form during a recent preseason training camp, drawing high praise from the coaching staff.
Operating under the watchful eye of LSG bowling coach Bharat Arun, Shami focused heavily on executing blockhole deliveries. His precision generated an immediate reaction from head coach Justin Langer. In training footage released by the franchise, Langer can be heard marveling at the execution.
“Your yorker… that yorker is breathtaking,” Langer told Shami during the net session.
Mentorship and Squad Dynamics
Beyond his physical conditioning and technical skill, Shami is already altering the locker room culture in Lucknow. Langer emphasized the veteran’s off-field impact, noting how younger domestic players are gravitating toward the seasoned international.
“During the team lunch, Mohammed Shami was speaking and all the boys were hanging on his every word, their eyes never left him,” Langer stated. The former Australian opener described Shami as an incredibly experienced true warrior. “We often discuss big brother-little brother or master-apprentice dynamics in coaching, and that is exactly what we have here.”
Road to the National Team
Shami has been grinding through domestic cricket to prove his match fitness after a prolonged injury absence that kept him out of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) central contracts focus. The upcoming IPL campaign represents his most visible opportunity to force his way back into the selector’s minds ahead of the international calendar.
LSG, a franchise seeking its first championship title since entering the league, will rely heavily on Shami’s powerplay and death-overs expertise.
Mohammed Shami Overall IPL Statistics
| Matches | Wickets | Best Bowling | Economy Rate | Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 110 | 127 | 4/11 | 8.44 | 26.86 |
Upcoming LSG Schedule Highlights
- Tournament Start: March 28
- Opening Match: Lucknow Super Giants vs. Delhi Capitals (April 1)
- Key Role: Shami is expected to lead the pace attack alongside LSG’s retained bowlers.
For official tournament schedules and broadcast details, fans can follow the official IPL website. Comprehensive player statistics are maintained by ESPNcricinfo.