Mumbai Indians have appointed Kieron Pollard as their new head coach ahead of IPL 2027. Pollard was the team’s batting coach for the last four IPL seasons having retired from playing the league ahead of the 2023 season. He takes over from Mahela Jayawardene, who parted ways with the franchise last weekend.
Pollard has had a long-standing association with MI and its sister franchises having first been signed as a player ahead of the 2010 season. He was a member of each of MI’s five title wins in the IPL – in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020, as well as their two CLT20 victories in 2011 and 2013. He boasts of a stellar record in the IPL, having played 189 matches and scored 3412 runs at a strike-rate of 147.32, besides bagging 69 wickets. He last played in the 2022 season, before taking over the role of batting coach and has now been elevated to the top post.
“It is an honour to take on the role of Head Coach of Mumbai Indians,” Pollard said in a statement. “MI has been a huge part of my life and career, and the bond I share with this team, the players and the Paltan [fanbase] means a great deal to me. 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,” he added.
Pollard has also been associated as a player with MI’s sister franchises in the MLC, ILT20 and SA20 over the years. The 39-year-old remains active on the franchise circuit, having turned out for MI New York in the MLC and Trinbago Knight Riders in the CPL this year. Earlier this month, he was signed by Joburg Super Kings in the SA20 player auction for the 2027 season. His appointment as MI head coach marks his first role in such a capacity.
“Pollard joined Mumbai Indians as a young 22-year-old and, over the past sixteen years, has become an integral part of our family. 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,” team owner Nita Ambani said.
“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,” she added.
Pollard’s first task as coach will now be to finalise the retentions ahead of the player auction, which is set to be held in Goa in December.
