MI Acquires Thakur and Rutherford; Arjun Tendulkar Joins LSG

Mumbai Indians (MI) have finalized key player acquisitions ahead of the upcoming IPL season. The franchise has secured the services of Shardul Thakur from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and also acquired Rutherford from Gujarat Titans (GT).

MI Acquires Thakur and Rutherford

MI has reached an in-principle agreement for Thakur in a cash deal worth INR 2 crore. This marks the third time Thakur has been traded in IPL history. Previously, he was acquired by Rising Pune Supergiant from Kings XI Punjab in 2017 and later by Kolkata Knight Riders from Delhi Capitals before the 2023 season.

Thakur enjoyed a promising start with LSG, taking six wickets in his first two matches of IPL 2025. However, his form declined, culminating in only 13 wickets from 10 matches, with a high economy rate of 11.02.

Rutherford’s acquisition comes for INR 2.6 crore, the same amount for which GT purchased him. This will be Rutherford’s fourth IPL team, having previously played for Delhi Capitals, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Gujarat Titans. He achieved a total of 291 runs across 13 matches this season, averaging 32.22 with a strike rate of 157.29.

Arjun Tendulkar Joins LSG

In addition to these trades, MI and LSG have agreed to a separate deal involving Arjun Tendulkar. The left-arm fast bowler, who joined MI for INR 30 lakh last year, will now transition to LSG. This move is aimed at providing Tendulkar with increased playing opportunities.

Tendulkar was initially acquired by MI in the 2021 auction for INR 20 lakh. He debuted in IPL 2023, totaling five matches and securing three wickets at an economy rate of 9.36.

Key Trade Details

These strategic moves reflect MI’s commitment to strengthening their squad as they prepare for the next IPL season. The franchise aims to build a competitive team with a mix of established talent and promising players.