Shardul Thakur’s IPL Journey: Breaking Down the Franchise Record
In the high-stakes world of the Indian Premier League (IPL), few players embody the role of the versatile specialist quite like Shardul Thakur. Known for his ability to break partnerships and provide crucial lower-order runs, Thakur has become one of the most traveled players in the league’s history. With the start of the 2026 season, Thakur has further cemented his reputation as a premier “journeyman” of the T20 circuit.
The Franchise Count: Where Shardul Thakur Stands
As of the 2026 season, Shardul Thakur has played for seven different IPL franchises. This puts him in an elite and unusual group of players who have adapted to multiple team cultures and strategies across the league. According to ESPNcricinfo, Thakur is one of three men to have represented seven different teams, alongside Ishant Sharma and Manish Pandey.
While seven teams is a significant milestone, he is not the sole record holder. Left-arm seamer Jaydev Unadkat holds the distinction of having played for eight different IPL franchises, making him the most traveled player in the competition’s history.
A Timeline of Shardul Thakur’s IPL Teams
Thakur’s career path reflects the volatile nature of IPL auctions and team requirements. His journey across the franchises is as follows:
- Kings XI Punjab: 2015
- Rising Pune Supergiants: 2017
- Chennai Super Kings: 2018–2021, 2024
- Delhi Capitals: 2022
- Kolkata Knight Riders: 2023
- Lucknow Super Giants: 2025
- Mumbai Indians: 2026
Impact at Mumbai Indians in IPL 2026
Joining the Mumbai Indians for the 2026 season, Thakur made an immediate impact. In the season opener against the Kolkata Knight Riders at Wankhede Stadium, Thakur debuted for his seventh franchise with a clinical performance, claiming 3/39. This spell was particularly decisive, as The Indian Express noted that most other bowlers struggled on that specific surface.
Beyond the IPL: International and Domestic Success
While his IPL career is marked by frequent moves, Thakur’s overall cricket profile is defined by consistency in domestic and international arenas. A mainstay for Mumbai in domestic cricket, he has been a vital part of the Indian national squad between 2017 and 2025.
His trophy cabinet includes significant achievements with the Indian national team, including being part of the squads that won the ACC Asia Cup in 2018 and 2023. He also earned runner-up medals in the ICC World Test Championship (2021–2023) and the ICC Cricket World Cup (2023).
- IPL Franchises: 7 (Current: Mumbai Indians)
- Most Franchises: Jaydev Unadkat (8)
- Recent Form: 3/39 in IPL 2026 opener vs KKR
- Major Honors: Asia Cup Winner (2018, 2023)
Frequently Asked Questions
Has any player played for more IPL teams than Shardul Thakur?
Yes, Jaydev Unadkat has played for eight different IPL franchises, surpassing Thakur’s seven.
Which team does Shardul Thakur play for in 2026?
Shardul Thakur currently plays for the Mumbai Indians in the 2026 IPL season.
How many Asia Cups has Shardul Thakur won?
Thakur was part of the Indian squad that won the Asia Cup twice, in 2018 and 2023.
As the 2026 season progresses, Thakur’s ability to deliver results for a new franchise suggests that his experience across seven different teams is an asset rather than a liability. His adaptability remains his greatest strength in the ever-evolving landscape of T20 cricket.