Kieron Pollard Named Mumbai Indians Head Coach
Mumbai Indians have appointed former West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard as their new head coach ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027 season. The five-time IPL champions confirmed the appointment on Saturday, October 24, 2026, promoting the 39-year-old from batting coach to replace Mahela Jayawardene, who recently ended his association with the franchise.
Kieron Pollard Replaces Mahela Jayawardene as MI Coach
Pollard takes over after Jayawardene’s departure following his second spell as Mumbai Indians head coach. The former Sri Lankan captain previously coached the franchise between 2017 and 2022 before returning for another stint.
Pollard has been associated with Mumbai Indians for approximately 16 years, representing the franchise as a player before joining its coaching staff following his retirement from the IPL in 2022.
Franchise co-owner Nita Ambani welcomed his promotion, praising his experience, leadership and understanding of the team’s culture.
Kieron Pollard’s Mumbai Indians IPL Career
Pollard played 189 IPL matches for Mumbai Indians, scoring 3,412 runs at a strike rate of 147.32 and taking 69 wickets.
The former West Indies captain played an important role in Mumbai Indians’ five IPL title victories between 2013 and 2020.
He also represented the West Indies team that won the 2012 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Pollard expressed gratitude to Nita Ambani, Akash Ambani and the franchise management for trusting him with the responsibility.
Mumbai Indians Target IPL 2027 Title
Mumbai Indians last won the IPL championship in 2020 and have struggled to reproduce their earlier dominance in recent seasons.
Pollard’s immediate responsibilities will include preparing the squad for IPL 2027, supporting player development and strengthening the team’s competitive performances.
The appointment continues Mumbai Indians’ preference for experienced figures familiar with the franchise’s established cricketing structure.
