IPL 2027: Kieron Pollard replaces Mahela Jayawardene as Mumbai Indians head coach

Mumbai Indians have promoted Kieron Pollard from batting coach to head coach, extending his long association with the five-time IPL champions. The former West Indies all-rounder will lead the franchise after years as a player and coach.

In Short

• Kieron Pollard appointed as Mumbai Indians' new head coach
• Pollard has represented Mumbai Indians as a player in his IPL playing days
• He replaces Mahela Jayawardene as the new head coach

Mumbai Indians have appointed Kieron Pollard as their new head coach ahead of the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League, promoting the former West Indies all-rounder from his previous role as the franchise's batting coach.

Pollard's elevation extends one of the longest associations between a player and a franchise in T20 cricket. Having spent 13 years representing Mumbai Indians as a player, he remains one of the most influential figures in the team's history and will now be tasked with helping the five-time champions return to winning ways.

A MUMBAI LEGEND

Pollard finished his playing career with 3,915 runs for Mumbai Indians, making him the franchise's third-highest run-scorer. He was part of every title-winning campaign in the team's history during his playing stint and also led the side on a temporary basis.

His familiarity with the franchise, its culture and its players makes the appointment a continuation of his journey in Mumbai's blue and gold. After retiring from the IPL as a player, Pollard moved into coaching and served as the team's batting coach, gaining further experience within the setup.

Announcing his appointment, Pollard said he was honoured to take on the new responsibility and thanked Nita Ambani, Akash Ambani and the MI family for their trust. He also expressed his desire to build on the team's legacy, develop talent and give the supporters more reasons to celebrate.

MI SEEK FRESH START

The appointment comes at a time when Mumbai Indians are looking to rediscover their place among the IPL's leading teams. Since Hardik Pandya returned to the franchise ahead of the 2024 season and took over as captain, Mumbai have reached the playoffs only once, finishing fourth.

The team's recent struggles have raised questions about its direction, particularly given its history of success and the expectations that come with being one of the league's most decorated franchises.

Mumbai have also moved towards a new coaching chapter, with Mahela Jayawardene stepping aside after a successful tenure in which he guided the team to three IPL titles. His departure marks a significant change for a franchise that built much of its success around continuity in leadership and coaching.

Pollard's appointment now gives Mumbai an opportunity to draw on the experience of someone who understands the franchise from the inside. His challenge will be to translate that familiarity into results and help the team mount a stronger title challenge in the upcoming season.

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