Shardul Thakur Sets IPL Record With Third Trade
All-rounder Shardul Thakur has become the first player in Indian Premier League (IPL) history to be traded three times, after his move from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to Mumbai Indians ahead of the 2026 season. The trade fee has been reported at ₹2 crore. This milestone includes his earlier trades: from Kings XI Punjab to Rising Pune Supergiants in 2017, and from Delhi Capitals to Kolkata Knight Riders in 2023.
Career Journey And Impact
Thakur will now become the seventh franchise he has represented in his IPL career, signalling both his adaptability and demand in the league. His performance as a late replacement in IPL 2025 for LSG highlighted his value, though he went unsold in the mega auction. The three-trade milestone underscores a new benchmark in player movement within the IPL.
What It Means For The IPL
Thakur’s record emphasises evolving strategies in franchise team building, with richer trade windows and player mobility than ever before. Teams appear more willing to initiate all-cash deals for experienced domestic players. For Thakur, this move to Mumbai Indians could present a fresh opportunity in a high-profile squad ahead of IPL 2026.
