As five-time Indian Premier League champions Mumbai Indians look toward the 2027 season, the franchise has officially announced a significant transition in its support staff. On Thursday, Mumbai Indians confirmed the departures of bowling coaches Lasith Malinga and Paras Mhambrey, alongside fielding coach Carl Hopkinson. The move reflects a broader restructuring following a challenging 2026 campaign, where the team finished ninth in the ten-team standings, prompting a fresh approach to the franchise’s technical setup.
The departure of Lasith Malinga marks a poignant moment for Mumbai Indians fans around the globe. Malinga’s connection with the franchise is legendary, spanning years as its premier fast bowler and spearhead before returning to serve as bowling coach in 2024. Renowned for his lethal yorkers and unmatched tactical acumen under pressure, Malinga’s contributions both on the field and in the dugout helped shape Mumbai’s winning culture. Paras Mhambrey, who brought deep technical expertise to the pace department, and Carl Hopkinson, whose energetic leadership elevated the squad’s fielding standards, were equally praised by the organization for their dedication and professionalism.
The franchise expressed its sincere gratitude to all three departing coaches, acknowledging their invaluable work and wishing them continued success in their future endeavors. This coaching reshuffle follows the recent exit of former Sri Lankan captain Mahela Jayawardene, who stepped down as head coach after a highly successful multi-year tenure that produced key championship titles.
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Taking the reins for the upcoming 2027 season is former West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard, who has been appointed head coach. Pollard, another foundational pillar of Mumbai Indians’ historic IPL triumphs as a player and mentor, will lead the new-look coaching team into a period of renewal.
Mumbai Indians have not yet named replacements for the vacant bowling and fielding roles. With Pollard now at the helm, the focus shifts to whether a new coaching group can address performance gaps and rebuild a squad capable of returning to title contention in 2027.
