Just hours before SunRisers Hyderabad’s IPL 2025 match against Lucknow Super Giants, Indian fast bowler Mohammad Shami visited Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath at his official residence in Lucknow. This special meeting happened ahead of the big game at the Ekana International Stadium and was a notable moment off the cricket field.
Mohammad Shami, a prominent figure in Indian cricket and one of the country’s leading fast bowlers, shared pleasantries and exchanged thoughts with CM Yogi Adityanath. The interaction highlighted the growing synergy between sportspersons and state leaders, reflecting the importance of sports in fostering unity, discipline, and national pride.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, recognized for his encouragement of sports talent in Uttar Pradesh and across India, praised Mohammad Shami for his contributions to Indian cricket. He motivated the pacer to regain his form in the ongoing IPL season and reaffirmed the state government’s dedication to enhancing sports infrastructure and nurturing emerging talent in cricket and other sports.
Mohammad Shami was roped in by SunRisers Hyderabad for a hefty ₹10 crore during the IPL 2025 mega auction, marking him as one of their marquee signings. However, the experienced pacer has failed to hit top gear this season, managing only six wickets in nine matches with a high average of 56.16 and an economy rate of 11.23.
His underwhelming performance has coincided with SunRisers Hyderabad’s disappointing campaign, which has seen them fall out of playoff contention with a few games still remaining. Despite the team’s struggles, Shami remains determined to turn things around and regain his form before the season ends.
With the pressure of playoff qualification lifted, Shami may now be able to approach the remaining matches with more freedom. The team and fans alike will hope that the Bengal pacer can use this opportunity to rediscover his trademark pace, accuracy, and match-winning prowess. A strong finish in IPL 2025 could also help him prepare for future international assignments and restore confidence ahead of the upcoming cricketing calendar.
The meeting between Mohammad Shami and CM Yogi Adityanath was more than a symbolic gesture. It served as a reminder of the respect and recognition Indian cricketers receive beyond the field, and the role political leaders can play in boosting athletes’ morale. As cricket continues to unite people across states and ideologies, such moments emphasize the sport’s cultural significance in the country.
As Shami gears up for SunRisers Hyderabad’s next match, fans will be watching closely to see if this inspirational moment with the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister sparks a much-needed turnaround in his form.
