India and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) all-rounder Shardul Thakur is set for a big move ahead of IPL 2026, with the Mumbai Indians (MI) securing his services through a direct trade. Thakur, who joined LSG as an injury replacement for INR 2 crore in IPL 2025, will now return to his home franchise for the same fee he was originally signed for. Although he went unsold at the mega auction last year, LSG quickly roped him in after Mohsin Khan’s injury, expecting his experience and all-around abilities to strengthen their campaign.
Shardul began IPL 2025 in style, striking early with six wickets across his first two games—including a brilliant four-wicket burst against Sunrisers Hyderabad. However, his rhythm faded as the tournament progressed. He eventually finished with 13 wickets in 10 innings but also an expensive economy rate of 11.02, leading to questions about his consistency.
Still, his ability to deliver game-changing spells and his proven record across multiple franchises—CSK, Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings—made MI eager to bring him back into their setup.
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The IPL confirmed the trade in an official statement, noting that Thakur has been transferred to the Mumbai Indians for his existing player fee of INR 2 crore. With Hardik Pandya’s workload being managed and MI looking to rebuild a stronger Indian core, Shardul’s arrival offers both depth and flexibility in the pace-bowling department.
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The Mumbai Indians have also strengthened their overseas group with another strategic signing. West Indies power-hitter Sherfane Rutherford will join MI after a successful trade from the Gujarat Titans (GT), who had acquired him for INR 2.6 crore. Rutherford’s move to MI comes at the same fee, giving the five-time champions an explosive middle-order option.
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The 27-year-old brings valuable international experience, having played 44 T20Is for West Indies and holding the record for the highest sixth-wicket partnership in T20I cricket—a massive 139-run stand with Andre Russell in Perth. Rutherford has appeared in 23 IPL matches, having stints with Delhi Capitals, RCB, MI (2020), and KKR (2024). Although he didn’t get game time in some of those seasons, his recent form and finishing power make him an exciting addition to MI’s plans for IPL 2026.
