Shardul Thakur Signs With Mumbai Indians In First Trade Ahead Of IPL 2026

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In a significant development ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have completed the first player trade of the season, sending all-rounder Shardul Thakur to Mumbai Indians (MI). The move marks a homecoming of sorts for the 34-year-old, who will now represent his state side's franchise in the upcoming season.

The Sanjiv Goenka-owned Lucknow outfit had acquired Shardul for ₹2 crore as a replacement player during IPL 2025 after the experienced all-rounder surprisingly went unsold in the mega-auction.

Despite his limited opportunities, Shardul delivered a steady performance for LSG, taking 13 wickets in 10 matches. However, with the team looking to restructure ahead of the new season, the management opted to release him through a trade.

Mumbai Indians officially confirmed the move on Wednesday, welcoming Shardul into the fold as part of their preparations for IPL 2026. The trade also marks his reunion with Indian teammate Hardik Pandya, who has been leading MI since 2024 after taking over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma.

Cricbuzz had earlier reported that both Shardul and Arjun Tendulkar were in discussions to switch franchises. However, Arjun's name was notably absent from both the IPL's official statement and Mumbai Indians' announcement, leaving his future uncertain. Sources suggest that a potential move involving Arjun could still be on the table post-auction.

Meanwhile, off the IPL field, Shardul is set to make another important return - this time to the domestic circuit. The all-rounder was recently named captain of Mumbai's Ranji Trophy team for the 2025-26 season, marking his first stint playing for the state side in the premier red-ball competition.

With his transfer to Mumbai Indians, Shardul will once again share the dressing room with several familiar faces from the Indian setup. Known for his ability to deliver breakthroughs at crucial moments and contribute valuable lower-order runs, Shardul's addition strengthens MI's all-round department as they look to bounce back strongly in IPL 2026.