Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Nov 13: With the IPL 2026 retention deadline fast approaching, cricket fans are abuzz with speculation over player trades and franchise strategies. Amidst the frenzy, former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has unintentionally let slip a major development involving Mumbai Indians (MI) during a discussion on his YouTube channel.

In a recent episode of his show ‘Ash Ki Baat’, Ashwin was analysing the possible retentions and trades across all ten franchises when he inadvertently confirmed a key trade deal that had not yet been officially announced. While discussing Mumbai Indians’ likely plans before the mini-auction in December, Ashwin stated that the franchise had secured Shardul Thakur from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in a trade move.

“I don’t see any releases happening from MI. Will they try to secure a replacement for Deepak Chahar, who’s a bit injury-prone? They have secured Shardul Thakur on a trade from LSG. That is already done,” Ashwin said during the broadcast.

The comment, though brief, immediately sparked widespread attention across social media, as the news aligned with reports that had surfaced only hours earlier.

Earlier on Wednesday, a Cricbuzz report revealed that Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants were in advanced talks over a high-profile trade, with MI set to acquire Shardul Thakur in a cash-based transfer. The report also mentioned that Arjun Tendulkar was likely to move in a separate transaction — another independent, all-cash deal between the two teams.

As per IPL trading rules, all completed trades must be officially announced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). While no formal confirmation has been released yet, sources within Mumbai’s cricket circles have indicated that the trade paperwork has been finalised, and an official announcement is expected on November 15.

If confirmed, Shardul Thakur’s inclusion could bolster Mumbai Indians’ pace attack, especially as the team looks to add depth and balance ahead of IPL 2026. Known for his all-round abilities and knack for breakthroughs, Thakur’s arrival would strengthen MI’s bowling options alongside Jasprit Bumrah and Jason Behrendorff.

Ashwin’s casual revelation has certainly added to the pre-auction intrigue — and fans will now wait eagerly for official word from the BCCI and franchises when retention lists and trades are unveiled in the coming days.