IPL 2026: Shardul Thakur set to join MI from LSG
What's the story
Shardul Thakur, the Indian all-rounder, is set to join Mumbai Indians (MI) for the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The move comes after an in-principle agreement was reached between MI and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for an all-cash trade deal, according to ESPNcricinfo. Both franchises are believed to have submitted an expression of interest to the IPL. The necessary process is yet to be completed.
Career trajectory
Third trade involving Thakur
This will be the third trade involving Thakur in IPL history. The first was in 2017 when Rising Pune Supergiant bought him from Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings). Before the 2023 season, Kolkata Knight Riders acquired him from Delhi Capitals. Both those trades were all-cash deals just like this one between MI and LSG.
Performance review
Thakur's performance for LSG in IPL 2025
Thakur was picked by the Super Giants as a replacement for seamer Mohsin Khan at his base price of ₹2 crore. He had a good start in IPL 2025 before struggling later on. In 10 matches, he took 13 wickets with an economy rate of 11.02. The right-arm medium-pacer, who is also handy with the bat, owns 107 IPL wickets at an average of 30.31.
Past association
Return to MI for Thakur
The move to MI marks a return of sorts for Thakur. According to ESPNcricinfo, he was a support bowler for the five-time champions between 2010 and 2012. He even served as Mumbai skipper in domestic cricket. His experience and past association with the team will be valuable assets as he prepares for the IPL 2026 season.
Swap speculation
Arjun Tendulkar likely to move to LSG from MI
In another major development, star MI pacer Arjun Tendulkar is likely to join the Super Giants in a swap deal. This could be another big trade this season after the Ravindra Jadeja-Sanju Samson deal.