Mumbai Indians promote Pollard to head coach

MUMBAI, India (CMC):

Kieron Pollard has been appointed head coach of Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Mumbai Indians for the 2027 season, just days after the team parted ways with former head coach Mahela Jayawardene.

The 39-year-old former West Indies all-rounder was a member of the squad during each of the franchise’s five IPL title-winning campaigns in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020.

Pollard, who most recently served as the team’s batting coach, said he was eagerly anticipating the challenge of leading the five-time champions.

“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,” he said in an MI statement.

“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 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,” he added.

Mumbai Indians is the only IPL team Pollard represented during his playing career. Between 2010 and 2022, he featured in 189 matches, scoring 3,412 runs and taking 69 wickets.

Following the 2022 season, when Mumbai Indians became the second franchise to successfully defend an IPL title, he transitioned into coaching and assumed the role of batting coach.

Pollard will face a significant challenge in returning the franchise to its former dominance. While Mumbai Indians reached the playoffs in 2023 and 2025, they finished 10th and ninth in 2024 and 2026, respectively.

MI co-owner Nita Ambani said she was confident Pollard was the right person to lead the team forward.

“Pollard joined Mumbai Indians as a young 22-year-old and, over the past 16 years, has become an integral part of our family. As a player, he gave us many unforgettable moments and, as a coach, he has continued to share his experience, passion and deep understanding of the game.

“We are delighted to see him take on this new responsibility as head coach. Polly knows what it means to wear the MI jersey and what it takes to play for the Paltan. I am confident that he will bring the same commitment, belief and determination to this role. I wish him every success as he leads the team into its next chapter,” Ambani said.