In a significant pre-retention deadline shake-up, the Mumbai Indians have been actively reshaping their squad for the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026 season. The five-time champions have executed a series of strategic trades and transfers, setting the stage for a major team rebuild.
Key Player Movements Before Deadline
The most notable move involves the release of bowling all-rounder Arjun Tendulkar, who will join the Lucknow Super Giants. The son of cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, Arjun was initially picked by MI at the 2021 IPL auction and made his debut for the franchise in 2023. His transfer to LSG will occur at his existing fee of Rs 30 lakh.
In a corresponding move, Mumbai Indians have secured the return of leg-spinner Mayank Markande from Kolkata Knight Riders. Markande, who began his IPL career with MI in 2018, will rejoin his former franchise at his existing acquisition fee of Rs 30 lakh. The spinner has featured in 37 IPL matches throughout his career, claiming an impressive 37 wickets.
Earlier Acquisitions Strengthen Squad
Even before Saturday's announcements, Mumbai Indians had been busy in the transfer market. The franchise strengthened their lineup by acquiring all-rounder Shardul Thakur from the Lucknow Super Giants and power-hitter Sherfane Rutherford from Gujarat Titans.
These strategic moves indicate MI's clear intent to build a balanced and competitive squad for IPL 2026. The addition of experienced players like Thakur and Rutherford, combined with the return of Markande, provides the team with multiple options across departments.
IPL 2026 Retention Rules Explained
Unlike mega auction years, the upcoming IPL season does not impose strict limits on player retentions. Teams can retain as many players as they wish, though they must eventually build a squad of 25 players within a purse of approximately 120 crores.
This flexibility allows franchises like Mumbai Indians to make calculated decisions about their core group while having the financial bandwidth to pursue specific targets in the auction.
The official lists of retained and released players by Mumbai Indians are expected to be revealed shortly, following the conclusion of the retention deadline. Cricket enthusiasts and IPL fans are eagerly awaiting the complete picture of MI's squad composition for what promises to be another exciting season of premier T20 cricket.
