IPL 2026 Trade News: Shardul Thakur and S Rutherford Join MI

IPL 2026 Trade News & Retention Highlights:

Mumbai Indians (MI) have kicked off the IPL 2026 trade window with two impactful signings, acquiring Sherfane Rutherford from Gujarat Titans (GT) and Shardul Thakur from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Both deals significantly bolster MI’s squad depth ahead of a pivotal new season.

Sherfane Rutherford Joins MI from Gujarat Titans

West Indies all-rounder Sherfane Rutherford will represent Mumbai Indians in IPL 2026 after being traded from Gujarat Titans for ₹2.6 crore, the same fee at which GT had originally acquired him.

With the retention deadline nearing, Gujarat Titans are now expected to shift focus toward rebuilding and strengthening their middle order, an area that proved inconsistent during their mixed 2025 campaign. Experts believe GT may target a strong, stable No. 4 batter in the upcoming auction.

Rutherford, meanwhile, brings valuable international and T20 experience to MI. The 27-year-old has featured in 44 T20Is for the West Indies and holds the record for the highest sixth-wicket partnership in T20I history — a 139-run stand alongside Andre Russell against Australia in Perth.

Across his IPL career, Rutherford has played 23 matches, turning out for Delhi Capitals (2019) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (2022). He was previously part of MI’s 2020 squad and KKR’s 2024 roster, though he did not break into the playing XI during those stints. His return to Mumbai offers a fresh opportunity to cement his role as a powerful middle-order presence.

Shardul Thakur Completes All-Cash Trade to Mumbai Indians

The IPL 2026 trade window also delivered a major tactical shift with Shardul Thakur officially moving to Mumbai Indians through an all-cash trade worth ₹2 crore, his existing contract fee with LSG.

The five-time champions identified Shardul — a Mumbai-born domestic captain — as a key Indian all-rounder who can offer both wicket-taking ability and lower-order firepower. His acquisition strengthens MI’s Indian core and provides much-needed depth in the pace-bowling department.

Despite having a mixed 2025 season, where he finished with an economy rate of 11.02, Shardul showed sparks of brilliance. He bagged six wickets in his first two matches, including a standout four-wicket haul against Sunrisers Hyderabad, reminding fans of his ability to deliver match-winning spells.

In addition to his bowling, MI will value Shardul’s contributions with the bat. With a career strike rate of 139.48 and 325 IPL runs, he offers reliable finishing potential in the lower order — making him a strong dual-utility option for the franchise.