Kieron Pollard named Mumbai Indians head coach ahead of IPL 2027

Mumbai: Mumbai Indians, five-time IPL winners, have announced the appointment of ex-West Indies allrounder Kieron Pollard as their head coach ahead of the 2027 IPL season.Pollard takes over from Mahela Jayawardene who had resigned from the position last week, giving a fresh lease of life to the franchise’s coaching staff.Pollard, who has been with Mumbai Indians for 16 years, was the team’s batting coach earlier. He had contributed to the franchise’s successes in the IPL, as the team clinched five titles in between 2013 and 2020.His elevation demonstrates the franchise’s readiness to appoint a leader who is fully familiar with the team culture and the rigours of T20 cricket.In response to the appointment, Pollard said it was an honour to take up the position and thanked franchise owners Nita Ambani and Akash Ambani for their confidence in him.“I’m excited to work with the players and support staff to develop our young players and help continue the legacy of this team,” he said.Nita Ambani also congratusted him on becoming a player and coach.Pollard’s immediate concern will be to return Mumbai Indians to the top of the table after an underwhelming 2026 IPL season.The franchise will also be hoping the leadership and tactical nous gained from the former West Indies international helps it contend for a further title in 2027.