The IPL 2026 clash between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Delhi Capitals (DC) produced immediate drama as Mohammed Shami delivered a sensational first-ball breakthrough on his debut for LSG. Defending a modest total at the Ekana Cricket Stadium, Shami removed KL Rahul for a golden duck, giving his side the perfect start in the chase.
Mohammed Shami gets KL Rahul to celebrate his LSG debut in style
Opening the bowling, Shami bowled a teasing outswinger that lured Rahul into an ambitious drive. The DC batter, looking to get off the mark quickly, went hard at the delivery but only managed a thick outside edge. The ball flew straight to third man, where Mohsin Khan completed a safe catch, leaving Rahul stunned and walking back without scoring.
The wicket marked a memorable milestone for Shami, who was making his debut for Lucknow Super Giants after being traded from Sunrisers Hyderabad ahead of IPL 2026. His immediate impact underlined his reputation as one of the most lethal new-ball bowlers in T20 cricket.
Here’s the video:
What a start by Mohammed Shami! 🔥
A wicket for Mohammed Shami on his very first ball for #LSG, & it’s a big one in the form of KL Rahul! 👀
GAME ON at Ekana! #TATAIPL 2026 👉 #LSGvDC | LIVE NOW: https://t.co/1FhyvMxHq4 pic.twitter.com/Od6uaZohhn
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) April 1, 2026
Shami’s impressive record in IPL
This was also the second time Shami dismissed Rahul for a golden duck in IPL history, having achieved the same feat in 2022. The numbers further highlight Shami’s dominance in this matchup—Rahul has struggled against him in T20s, averaging modestly while being dismissed multiple times.
Notably, Shami now holds the record for the most wickets taken on the very first ball of an IPL innings, having achieved this remarkable feat five times. It’s a testament to his ability to strike early and put opposition teams under pressure right from the outset.
Also WATCH: Rishabh Pant’s opening gamble ends in freak run-out during LSG vs DC clash
Delhi Capitals collapse under pressure before a fightback from the star duo
Shami’s early breakthrough triggered a dramatic collapse in the DC batting lineup. The visitors found themselves in deep trouble as wickets continued to tumble in quick succession. Pathum Nissanka, Nitish Rana, and captain Axar Patel were all dismissed cheaply, leaving DC reeling at 26/4 in just 4.3 overs.
The top-order failure put immense pressure on the middle order, with the required run rate steadily climbing. LSG’s bowlers maintained tight lines and capitalized on the early momentum, making scoring difficult for the Capitals.
Just when DC appeared to be heading towards a heavy defeat, Sameer Rizvi and Tristan Stubbs stepped up with a composed partnership. The duo absorbed the pressure and rebuilt the innings with sensible shot selection and effective strike rotation.
Their 50-run stand for the fifth wicket brought much-needed stability to the chase, taking DC to 83/4 in 11 overs. Both batters showed resilience and intent, gradually shifting momentum back in their team’s favor and keeping hopes alive in what initially looked like a lost cause.
Also WATCH: Lungi Ngidi outfoxes Nicholas Pooran with a perfect slower delivery during LSG vs DC game at IPL 2026
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