Ashwin Reveals Shardul Thakur’s Trade to Mumbai Indians Ahead of IPL 2026

In what appears to be an accidental revelation, former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has disclosed that Shardul Thakur is set to join Mumbai Indians (MI) ahead of the IPL 2026 season, moving from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).

Ashwin made the remark during a discussion on his YouTube channel, hinting that Mumbai had already secured Thakur's services through a trade deal. While neither franchise has issued an official confirmation, multiple reports suggest the transaction is close to completion, with MI expected to pay around ₹2 crore for the all-rounder.

If confirmed, Thakur's inclusion would further strengthen Mumbai's pace-heavy attack, which already boasts the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Trent Boult, Deepak Chahar, and Mitchell Santner. The 32-year-old, known for his knack for picking crucial wickets and chipping in with quick runs, would add depth and versatility to an already formidable bowling lineup.

Thakur, who represented LSG in the 2025 season after brief stints with Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders, has been one of India's most adaptable limited-overs bowlers. His ability to swing the ball, coupled with lower-order batting power, makes him an ideal fit for Mumbai's balanced squad.

Ashwin's off-the-cuff disclosure has sparked excitement among MI fans, many of whom view the potential signing as a masterstroke ahead of next year's mega auction. The move, if finalised, would mark Thakur's return to his home state franchise - a team with which he previously shared close ties early in his domestic career.

With the IPL trade window open until late November, official confirmation from the BCCI or either franchise is expected soon. Until then, Ashwin's revelation has set social media abuzz, fuelling anticipation around Mumbai's growing arsenal for the 2026 campaign.