Arjun Tendulkar Set For Big IPL Move-Mumbai Indians To Trade Him In Cash Deal With Lucknow?

The IPL 2026 trade window has begun to heat up, with some surprising player swaps expected. Among the biggest developments, Mumbai Indians are in talks with Lucknow Super Giants for a possible cash deal involving Arjun Tendulkar. This move could see the young all-rounder leave Mumbai after struggling to secure game time over the past two seasons.

How Will The Deal Work Between MI And LSG?

According to Cricbuzz, this potential deal isn’t a traditional player-for-player swap. Instead, it will be a financial exchange where both franchises agree on set cash terms. Alongside this, experienced pacer Shardul Thakur is reportedly being released by Lucknow and could move to Mumbai Indians. The deal structure shows how teams are reshaping their squads strategically ahead of the 2026 auction.

What Are The IPL Cash Trade Rules?

Under IPL’s trade regulations, teams can buy players from other franchises by paying the same amount they were originally signed for or negotiate a higher undisclosed fee. Arjun was bought by Mumbai for ₹20 lakh, while Shardul was valued at ₹2 crore. In this case, both teams could use the same or slightly revised price to complete their trades confidentially.

Why Is This Move Important For Arjun?

Arjun Tendulkar has been part of Mumbai Indians since his debut but hasn’t received many opportunities. He played only five matches across two seasons, taking three wickets and scoring 13 runs. The lack of consistent game time limited his development. Joining a new team like Lucknow could give him the exposure and playing time he needs to prove his worth.

What Are Mumbai Indians Planning Ahead?

Mumbai Indians seem to be refreshing their squad balance. With Rohit Sharma nearing the final years of his career and several young talents emerging, MI may be focusing on stronger bowling depth and experienced all-rounders. Adding Shardul Thakur fits that strategy well — an experienced Indian pacer who can also contribute with the bat in the lower order.

How Can Lucknow Benefit From Arjun?

For Lucknow Super Giants, getting a young left-arm pacer like Arjun adds variation to their bowling attack. With bowlers like Mark Wood and Mohsin Khan in the squad, Arjun could learn and grow under their mentorship. The franchise is known for developing raw talent, and Arjun’s arrival might boost both his confidence and LSG’s future pace options.

Will This Trade Shape IPL 2026 Dynamics?

If confirmed, the Arjun-Shardul cash trade could set the tone for more financial-based deals this season. It’s a sign that IPL franchises are now thinking beyond star power — they’re planning balanced, long-term teams. For Arjun Tendulkar, this could finally be the turning point where he steps out of his father Sachin’s shadow and creates his own IPL story.