Mumbai Indians Appoint New Head Coach Days After Mahela Jayawardene Steps Down

Mumbai Indians appointed Kieron Pollard as their new head coach ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027 season. The franchise made the announcement on Saturday. Pollard has been promoted to the position after serving as the batting coach of the side. The post had been vacant since Mahela Jayawardene stepped down from the role earlier this month. Jayawardene served in the role for MI in two stints. The first was from 2017 to 2022, while the second lasted from 2024 to 2026.

Talking about Pollard, he is a former MI player. He was bought by the franchise ahead of IPL 2010 and continued playing for the side before retiring from the tournament in November 2022. The former West Indies all-rounder won five titles with Mumbai Indians in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020.

After his retirement, Pollard became the batting coach of Mumbai Indians, starting his new stint in the 2023 season.

Mumbai Indians elevate Kieron Pollard as Head Coach A defining figure in MI's success, the remarkable 16-year association of Kieron Pollard within the #OneFamily enters a new chapter. Read more - https://t.co/ORZz4gruIr https://t.co/BMI38BYH1f

— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) October 24, 2026

Speaking about his elevation as MI head coach, Pollard said, "It is an honour to take on the role of head coach of Mumbai Indians. MI has been a huge part of my life and career, and the bond I share with this team, the players and the Paltan means a great deal to me.

"Having experienced this journey as a player and then as a coach, I understand what Mumbai Indians stands for and the responsibility that comes with representing the Blue and Gold. I am grateful to Mrs. Nita Ambani, Akash Ambani and the entire MI family for their trust in me. I look forward to working closely with the players and support staff, building on the team's legacy, helping our talent grow and giving the Paltan many more reasons to celebrate."

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