Mumbai Indians Bolster Their Roster with Rutherford and Thakur for IPL 2026

Post by : Mara Rahim

The Mumbai Indians have secured the services of West Indies all-rounder Sherfane Rutherford from Gujarat Titans for the IPL 2026 season. Rutherford joins the team at his current fee of INR 2.6 crore, adding much-needed depth to MI’s middle order and bowling arsenal. This follows the recruitment of Shardul Thakur from Lucknow Super Giants, further strengthening the team’s batting and bowling capabilities for the upcoming season.

At 27, Rutherford has represented the West Indies in 44 T20Is and is recognized for his impressive sixth-wicket partnership of 139 runs alongside Andre Russell against Australia in Perth. Throughout his IPL journey, he has participated in 23 matches for Delhi Capitals, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Kolkata Knight Riders. Notably, he was part of the MI squad in 2020 but did not take the field that season.

Over his IPL career, Rutherford has amassed 397 runs at an average of 24.81 and a strike rate of 137.37, with 25 fours and 26 sixes to his name. His highest score is 46, as he has yet to achieve a half-century. Last season, he showed significant improvement, scoring 291 runs across 13 matches at an average of 32.33 and a strike rate of 157.30, including 22 fours and 18 sixes. His aggressive approach and knack for finishing games make him a significant acquisition for MI.

Shardul Thakur, who previously played for LSG, is making the move to Mumbai Indians for his existing fee of INR 2 crore. Thakur joined LSG as an injury replacement during IPL 2025 and participated in 10 matches. He is known for his adaptability and has proven himself in critical games for multiple franchises, offering both batting and bowling skills that will serve MI well in the forthcoming season.

With the addition of Rutherford and Thakur, Mumbai Indians are poised to enhance their batting reserve and bowling strength. Coach Mark Boucher will enjoy greater flexibility in forming combinations and adjusting tactics based on match circumstances. These strategic signings are expected to yield a well-rounded team ready to contend in IPL 2026.

As one of the most successful franchises in IPL history, Mumbai Indians have clinched the title five times, tying with Chennai Super Kings for the record. However, the team has not secured the IPL championship since 2020. Last season, MI reached Qualifier 2 but fell short against Punjab Kings, losing by five wickets. The latest acquisitions exemplify MI’s determination to reclaim the title and make a significant comeback in IPL 2026.

The introduction of Sherfane Rutherford and Shardul Thakur offers the Mumbai Indians a richer pool of options in the middle order, enhanced finishing capabilities, and added bowling depth. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing the effect of these acquisitions on MI’s performance in the intensively competitive IPL 2026 season.