The IPL trade window is buzzing with activity as teams gear up for the 2026 season, with the retention deadline fast approaching on November 15. All eyes are on the franchises as they finalize their lists of retained and released players before the mini-auction, scheduled for mid-December. Among the swirling rumors and potential deals, one that has caught significant attention is the speculated trade involving Shardul Thakur moving to Mumbai Indians (MI).
Ashwin's Accidental Revelation
Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has inadvertently added fuel to the fire by revealing on his YouTube channel that Shardul Thakur might be heading to Mumbai Indians from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). While the clip was later deleted, the news spread rapidly, intensifying speculation around the potential trade. Ashwin suggested that MI is seeking a replacement for the injury-prone Deepak Chahar and has already secured Shardul Thakur through a trade with LSG.
The Thakur-Tendulkar Connection
Reports suggest that MI and LSG are discussing a player exchange involving Shardul Thakur and Arjun Tendulkar. It is expected that the moves will be processed as separate all-cash deals rather than a direct swap. Arjun Tendulkar has been with MI since 2021 but has only played a few matches. Shardul Thakur, on the other hand, was signed by LSG as an injury replacement for Mohsin Khan in the previous season for his base price of Rs 2 Crore.
Thakur's IPL Journey
Shardul Thakur's potential return to Mumbai Indians would mark a full circle for the fast bowler, as he has been part of the franchise in the past. He previously won two IPL titles with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) before joining LSG for the 2025 season. Despite going unsold at the mega auction last year, he was picked up as a replacement player by LSG, where he took 13 wickets in 10 matches.
Mumbai Indians' Strategic Moves
Mumbai Indians appear to be strengthening their Indian core for IPL 2026. Shardul Thakur's potential arrival would add depth to their all-round and pace-bowling departments. In addition to Thakur, MI is reportedly closing in on Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) leg-spinner Mayank Markande. A deal with Markande would bolster their spin attack alongside Vignesh Puthur and Karn Sharma. The franchise has also shown interest in Rahul Chahar, another former MI player, though no formal approach has been confirmed.
Other Potential Trades and Retentions
The trade window is witnessing several other significant movements and rumors. A major trade involving Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals (RR) to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in exchange for Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran is reportedly on the cards. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are said to be eyeing KL Rahul from Delhi Capitals (DC) and may release Venkatesh Iyer. Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) are reportedly in trade talks for Marcus Stoinis.
The IPL 2026 mini-auction is expected to be held between December 13 and 15 in Abu Dhabi. With the retention deadline of November 15 looming, fans and franchises alike are eagerly awaiting official announcements and confirmations of these potential trades and retentions.
