In what could be one of the biggest pre-auction twists, former India spinner Ravi Ashwin has claimed that the Mumbai Indians (MI) have secured star all-rounder Shardul Thakur in a trade deal with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) ahead of the IPL 2026 mini auction. Though neither franchise has confirmed the move, Ashwin’s revelation has set social media buzzing with speculation.

Thakur’s IPL Journey So Far

Shardul, who went unsold at the IPL 2025 mega auction, joined LSG mid-season as a replacement for injured pacer Mohsin Khan. The seam-bowling all-rounder made a strong comeback, picking up 13 wickets in 10 matches at an average of 28.85. If Ashwin’s claim turns out true, Mumbai Indians would become the seventh franchise Thakur has represented after stints with PBKS, CSK, DC, KKR, RPS, and LSG

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