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Why MI's ploy to trade Shardul Thakur from LSG could be a game-changer ahead of IPL 2026

Sakshi Sharma

Shardul Thakur in IPL 2025 (Source: AFP)Shardul Thakur in IPL 2025 (Source: AFP)

The IPL 2026 trade window has been buzzing with big names, including the potential Sanju Samson-Ravindra Jadeja trade. Yet, it would not be wrong to say that the Mumbai Indians (MI) have quietly made a big move. The Mumbai-based franchise has traded Shardul Thakur from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). It is important to mention that this deal is a cash-based trade, not a player-for-player swap.

It can be said that Shardul Thakur brings more than just numbers. His experience across IPL, ability to strike with both ball and bat, and homegrown connection make him an ideal addition for MI as they gear up for IPL 2026.

Shardul Thakur vs Deepak Chahar: IPL comparison

In IPL 2025, Shardul Thakur played 10 matches, taking 13 wickets at an economy of 11, while Deepak Chahar played 14 matches and picked up 11 wickets at an economy of 9.17. On paper, the numbers may look close, but Shardul Thakur brings an added all-around value that Chahar cannot offer.

Looking at his IPL career overall, Shardul has played 105 matches for 6 teams. The ace pacer has scalped 107 wickets at an economy of 9.40. With the bat, he has made 325 runs from 42 innings at a strike rate of 139.48.

Why Shardul Thakur trade makes sense for MI

A solution to MI’s bowling woes:  Shardul Thakur can step in as a reliable backup for frontline bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult. He can step in during power plays or death overs, allowing the team to better manage its key pacers. In IPL 2025 (death-over stats), he has taken 7 wickets in 8 innings at an economy of 11.73.

However, he still offers more valuable support than Deepak Chahar. In IPL 2025, Deepak has bowled three death overs, taking two wickets at an economy of 14.33.

Criteria
Shardul Thakur
Deepak Chahar
Innings
83
Wickets72
Economy
11.7314.33

(Shardul Thakur and Deepak Chahar's death over bowling stats in IPL 2025)

All-round contribution: While MI's lower-order batting has been decent, if in IPL 2026 the team is in need of quick runs, they can trust Shardul Thakur. He can add the depth and flexibility with the bat, capable of hitting crucial runs in pressure situations. He also has the ability to accelerate runs, which provides MI with an extra layer of firepower.

Local connection: Another advantage of bringing Thakur into the MI squad is his Mumbai connection.

Conclusion

It is worth noting that the inclusion of Shardul Thakur will give MI a versatile, experienced, and reliable Indian all-rounder, addressing gaps in both batting and bowling. The ace pacer is also currently the captain of Mumbai in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2025-26. 

From a strategic standpoint, MI's potential acquisition of Shardul Thakur from LSG is a well-planned, low-risk, high-reward move. Beyond statistics, it strengthens MI’s Indian core, adds versatile all-round depth, and brings a homegrown talent for Mumbai. As this trade is finalised, it could balance MI’s squad and give them an edge in IPL 2026.