Mumbai Indians (MI) have found a successor to Mahela Jayawardene ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027 season. The franchise parted ways with Jayawardene earlier in October and has now turned to a familiar face from within its coaching setup to lead the team.

The appointment comes at an important time for the five-time champions, with the franchises required to submit their retention lists by November 15. The new head coach will have a key role in shaping the squad before the IPL 2027 auction, which is expected to take place in Goa around a month later.

Mumbai Indians promote former all-rounder to head coach

Kieron Pollard has been elevated to the role of Mumbai Indians’ head coach after previously serving as the franchise’s batting coach. The former West Indies all-rounder represented MI from 2010 to 2022, playing 189 matches and scoring 3,412 runs while taking 69 wickets. Pollard was part of five IPL title-winning campaigns with Mumbai Indians in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020.

Reacting to his appointment, Pollard said, “It is a 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.”

Following his playing career with the franchise, he moved into a coaching role and continued to contribute to the team’s batting setup. The franchise’s management also expressed confidence in his ability to lead the team, highlighting his understanding of the MI culture and the commitment he has shown over the years.

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New head coach faces crucial preparations for IPL 2027

Pollard’s responsibilities will extend beyond Mumbai Indians’ IPL campaign. He has also been involved with the franchise’s global teams, coaching MI London in The Hundred and representing MI New York, MI Cape Town and MI Emirates in their respective competitions. However, his immediate focus will be on the IPL 2027 retention decisions and preparations for the upcoming auction.

Mumbai Indians will look to build a squad capable of challenging for another title after making a significant change to their coaching setup. Pollard is also set to feature for Joburg Super Kings in the upcoming SA20 season after being picked at the auction. His new role at MI now adds another major responsibility to his growing involvement in franchise cricket.

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