RR vs LSG: Why is Mohammed Shami Not Playing in Today’s IPL Match at Sawai Mansingh Stadium? Massive Update on Lucknow Super Giants Pacer

It was a day to forget for veteran Indian speedster Mohammed Shami as he was first snubbed for India’s home series against Afghanistan before the day got even worse. Currently playing for the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) franchise Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Shami was not picked in the Starting XI and was not even named as an Impact Sub for the match against Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Sawai Mansing Stadium in Jaipur.  

Why is Mohammed Shami Not Playing in Today’s IPL Match?  

Form is a major concern for the management as Shami has been less influential in the IPL 2026, picking 10 wickets in 12 previous matches. His form became a major reason why Justin Langer and Co decided to bench Shami. However, with LSG bowling second and Shami not even named on the bench, it is unlikely that he could come in as an Impact Sub.   

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— Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL) May 19, 2026

After losing the toss, LSG skipper Rishabh Pant said he was confident about his side’s prospects, while also confirming key changes in the playing XI. He also confirmed multiple changes, including the absence of senior batter Aiden Markram due to a personal matter.

“Pretty confident, we know this is a good wicket to bat on. Happy to either bat or bowl first. We’ve a lot to play for, we take great pride in playing for the owners and the fans. Aiden Markarm has gone home for a personal matter; Mohammed Shami is out, and Mohsin Khan has replaced him. Ayush Badoni replaces Aiden Markram,” Pant said.

During the toss, Rajasthan Royals stand-in captain Jaiswal confirmed that Riyan Parag was left out of the playing XI for the match. He also shared an update on all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, stating that the senior player is missing the Lucknow fixture as he continues to recover from a niggle.

“We will bowl first. It looks like a good wicket, and there could be some dew later on; that’s what we’ll see. It means a lot to me, I’m proud to lead the Rajasthan Royals. He has a hamstring injury; hopefully, he’ll be fine. Three changes for us. We’re all speaking to everyone; the mindset and the attitude are important, and that’s what we want to bring to this game. Just smile and enjoy the game. That’s what I want to say. Jaddu bhai is recovering; he has some niggle and should be fine soon,” Jaiswal said.

Lucknow Super Giants (Playing XI): Mitchell Marsh, Josh Inglis, Nicholas Pooran, Rishabh Pant(w/c), Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad, Shahbaz Ahmed, Mohsin Khan, Mayank Yadav, Akash Maharaj Singh, Prince Yadav.  

Lucknow Super Giants Impact Players: Mukul Choudhary, Manimaran Siddharth, Digvesh Rathi, Himmat Singh, Arshin Kulkarni.