In a serious improvement forward of the IPL 2026 public sale, veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has revealed that Mumbai Indians (MI) have already accomplished a commerce deal for Shardul Thakur from Lucknow Tremendous Giants (LSG). The information has added a contemporary twist to the pre-auction buzz, particularly with ongoing experiences of Chennai Tremendous Kings (CSK) contemplating a blockbuster commerce involving Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran in trade for Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals (RR).
Whereas there was no official assertion from both MI or LSG, Ashwin dropped this revelation in his newest YouTube video, simply days after saying his retirement from all types of Indian cricket. The veteran spinner claimed that Mumbai Indians have already secured the companies of Thakur by a commerce deal.
Ashwin stated, “I do not see any releases taking place from MI. Will they attempt to safe a alternative for Deepak Chahar, who’s a bit injury-prone? They’ve secured Shardul Thakur on a commerce from LSG.”
Thakur’s IPL Franchise
If this report holds true, it’s going to mark Thakur’s seventh IPL franchise. Through the years, the Indian pacer has turned out for a number of groups together with Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings), Rising Pune Supergiant, Delhi Capitals, Kolkata Knight Riders, Lucknow Tremendous Giants, and a extremely profitable five-year stint with Chennai Tremendous Kings.
Within the IPL 2025 season, Thakur performed 10 matches for LSG, taking 13 wickets at a median of 28.84 with an financial system price of 11.02. Apparently, he had gone unsold through the public sale earlier than being roped in by LSG as a alternative for the injured Mohsin Khan. Regardless of becoming a member of mid-season, Thakur made an influence along with his wicket-taking potential and all-round contributions.
For Mumbai Indians, who reached the IPL 2025 playoffs however misplaced in Qualifier 2 to Punjab Kings, this acquisition could possibly be a strategic increase. The staff has been wanting so as to add skilled Indian bowling depth, particularly with Deepak Chahar’s health typically being a priority. Thakur’s versatility as a bowling all-rounder and his potential to ship beneath stress make him a worthwhile addition to MI’s setup.
At the moment captaining Mumbai within the Ranji Trophy 2025-26, Shardul Thakur’s transfer might additional strengthen MI’s home core, offering a dependable backup and extra firepower in each departments. If Ashwin’s declare seems to be correct, this commerce is likely to be one of many smartest pre-auction strikes by any franchise heading into IPL 2026.