Ashwin's Bombshell Revelation on YouTube
In a significant development that has sent ripples through the cricketing community, veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has made a startling announcement regarding player movements ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League season. During an episode on his popular YouTube channel 'Ash Ki Baat', Ashwin revealed that Lucknow Super Giants all-rounder Shardul Thakur has been traded to Mumbai Indians, marking a major shift in team compositions.
Although the specific video containing this revelation was subsequently removed from his channel, it had already gained significant traction across various social media platforms, with fans and experts alike discussing the potential implications of this move for the five-time champions.
Context of Ongoing Trade Discussions
This disclosure comes at a time when the IPL trading landscape is particularly active, with multiple high-profile player exchanges being considered. Ashwin's statement adds another layer to the pre-auction conversations, especially in light of persistent reports suggesting that Chennai Super Kings are contemplating a trade involving Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran in exchange for Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals.
While analyzing Mumbai Indians' potential strategy, Ashwin provided crucial insights, stating: "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."
Shardul Thakur's IPL Journey and Statistics
Shardul Thakur's career in the Indian Premier League has been marked by numerous transitions. Interestingly, the bowler went unsold during last year's IPL auction held in Jeddah but later found an opportunity with Lucknow Super Giants as a replacement for Mohsin Khan.
During IPL 2025, Thakur demonstrated his value by taking 13 wickets in 10 matches, which included an impressive four-wicket haul. However, his economy rate stood at 11.02, an area he would likely look to improve upon in the upcoming season.
If this trade is officially confirmed, Mumbai Indians will become the seventh IPL franchise Thakur has represented throughout his career. His previous stints include:
- Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings)
- Rising Pune Supergiant
- Delhi Capitals
- Kolkata Knight Riders
- Lucknow Super Giants
- Chennai Super Kings (where he spent five years)
Implications and Upcoming IPL Auction
This potential trade signals Mumbai Indians' intent to bolster their bowling arsenal, particularly seeking reliable options given Deepak Chahar's susceptibility to injuries. Thakur's experience and ability to contribute with both bat and ball make him a valuable asset in the T20 format.
The auction for the next season of the Indian Premier League is scheduled to take place between December 15-16, setting the stage for further team reshuffles and strategic acquisitions as franchises finalize their squads for the upcoming tournament.
