Shardul Thakur Trade To Mumbai Indians, Becomes First Cricketer to be Traded Thrice in IPL

Mumbai Indians have completed a full cash trade to bring Shardul Thakur from Lucknow Super Giants, adding a new chapter to an already unusual IPL career.

The league has officially confirmed the move, making Thakur the first cricketer to be traded three times in IPL history. The development comes even as fans wait for the much talked about Ravindra Jadeja and Sanju Samson trade to be finalised.

A Unique Journey Across IPL Franchises

Thakur has now been involved in three different cash trades across his career. In 2017, Rising Pune Supergiant acquired him from Punjab Kings. Ahead of the 2023 season, Delhi Capitals traded him to Kolkata Knight Riders in another all cash deal. This new move to Mumbai Indians adds to a remarkable pattern rarely seen in the league.

The pacer went unsold during the 2025 mega auction and even signed with Essex for the County Championships. However, an unexpected opening came when Mohsin Khan suffered an injury for LSG, prompting the franchise to bring Thakur in as a replacement. He began strongly with six wickets in two matches, including a four wicket haul. His form dipped later in the season and he finished with 13 wickets from 10 games at an economy of 11.02.

Seventh IPL Team for the Fast Bowler

Mumbai Indians now become the seventh IPL team in Thakur's career. He has previously represented Punjab Kings, Rising Pune Supergiant, Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Capitals, Kolkata Knight Riders and Lucknow Super Giants. His move places him among a select group of players who have turned out for both MI and CSK.

What He Brings to the Side

Across 105 IPL matches, Thakur has picked up 107 wickets at an average of 30.31 and an economy rate of 9.4. He has also contributed 325 runs in 42 innings at a strike rate of 139.48. Mumbai Indians will look to strengthen their bowling unit with this addition and may also rely on his handy lower order batting whenever required.