The IPL 2026 retention deadline is approaching and the franchises are working overtime to finalise their squads before auction planning begins in December. Mumbai Indians have kick-started what promises to be an active trading phase by completing their first major deal, securing the services of Shardul Thakur from Lucknow Super Giants. The move brings Shardul back to the city he represents in domestic cricket, after he joined LSG as an injury replacement last season following an unsold outing at the IPL 2025 auction. Known for his handy lower-order batting and ability to deliver crucial overs, Shardul is likely to operate as support to MI’s frontline pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Deepak Chahar, though he will be keen to push for a regular spot in the XI.

MI confirmed this signing through a so

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