Pollard takes head coach role at Mumbai Indians

MUMBAI, India (CMC) — Kieron Pollard has been named head coach of Indian Premier League (IPL) team Mumbai Indians (MI) for the 2027 season, days after the franchise parted ways with former Head Coach Mahela Jayawardene. The 39-year-old former West Indies all-rounder was part of the squad in each of its five IPL-winning seasons in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020. Pollard, who previously served as batting coach, said he was eagerly looking forward to his new role. “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.” MI is the only team Pollard played for in the IPL. Between 2010 to 2022 he played in 189 games, scoring 3412 runs and picking up 69 wickets. After the 2022 season, when MI became the second team to successfully defend the IPL title, he took over as the team’s batting coach. Pollard will have his work cut out, as MI have not been as dominant over the past few seasons. While they made the play-offs in 2023 and 2025, in 2024 and 2026, they finished 10th and ninth, respectively. MI co-owner Nita Ambani said he was confident Pollard was the right man for the job. “Pollard joined Mumbai Indians as a young 22-year-old and, over the past 16 years, has become an integral part of our family,” he said. “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.”