The IPL 2026 retention deadline is approaching and the franchises are working overtime to finalise their squads before auction planning begins in December. Mumbai Indians have kick-started what promises to be an active trading phase by completing their first major deal, securing the services of Shardul Thakur from Lucknow Super Giants. The move brings Shardul back to the city he represents in domestic cricket, after he joined LSG as an injury replacement last season following an unsold outing at the IPL 2025 auction. Known for his handy lower-order batting and ability to deliver crucial overs, Shardul is likely to operate as support to MI’s frontline pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Deepak Chahar, though he will be keen to push for a regular spot in the XI.
MI confirmed this signing through a social media video, where Thakur receives a phone call and then says, “Shardul Thakur aala re.” Though the player to be released from the Mumbai team is yet to be officially announced, reports strongly suggest that Arjun Tendulkar will head to LSG as part of the exchange deal.
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Sherfane Rutherford Returns to MI
Another important inclusion is that of West Indies power-hitter Sherfane Rutherford, whom MI have brought back from Gujarat Titans. Rutherford had a good season for GT last time around, with 291 runs at a strike rate of 157, hence is an attacking middle-order option. He will once again be a backup at MI to their overseas batting battery, comprising Ryan Rickelton and Will Jacks.
Two New Inclusions Expected
The franchise is not done yet Mumbai are believed to be exploring reinforcements in their spin department. This could see the potential return of former MI leg-spinners Mayank Markande or Rahul Chahar, both of whom struggled for consistent game time at KKR and SRH last season.
Other Major Trade Rumours Across Franchises
It’s not just Mumbai who are shaping up for a busy window. There is a blockbuster swap being widely spoken about between Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals, with Sanju Samson reportedly close to joining CSK while Ravindra Jadeja may be going back to RR, the team where he first made his mark. As of now, Mohammed Shami’s name is doing the rounds in the trade talks with a number of franchises looking for experienced pace options. LSG, having let Shardul go, are said to be considering Shami as a replacement, while Delhi Capitals are also said to be keen to bring back the veteran pacer to Delhi.
