Last Updated on 12 seconds ago by Charbel Coorey

Ahead of the IPL 2027 season, the Mumbai Indians have roped in former all-rounder Kieron Pollard as their new head coach. Pollard comes in for Mahela Jayawardene, who ended his association with the franchise last weekend.

The former West Indies player has been part of the Mumbai Indians set up for a few years and will take charge of the team for the first time in a head coaching capacity.

Ahead of the 2010 season, Mumbai Indians bought Pollard and he went on to become one of the most important figures in the franchise’s history. He was a part of all five of Mumbai’s IPL title-winning campaigns in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020. He was also a member of the team’s two Champions League T20 triumphs in 2011 and 2013.

The 39-year-old ended his IPL career with 189 appearances. He scored 3412 runs at a strike rate of 147.32. He also picked up 69 wickets. Pollard last played in the IPL in 2022 before moving into the coaching setup. He has since gone on to coach the batting for Mumbai Indians for the past four seasons.

Pollard’s elevation to head coach is the latest chapter in his long association with the Mumbai Indians fold. Aside from his work with the main franchise, he has also represented its sister teams in competitions like Major League Cricket, ILT20 and SA20.

Pollard has continued to play franchise cricket since moving into coaching. This year he represented MI New York in the MLC and Trinbago Knight Riders in the CPL. He was also picked by Joburg Super Kings in the SA20 auction for the 2027 season, but has since withdrawn.

Kieron Pollard: “I understand what Mumbai Indians stands for and the responsibility that comes with representing the Blue and Gold.”

In the press release by the franchise on this new management decision, Kieron Pollard himself shared his thoughts about what he feels about this responsibility on his shoulders and how he knows the amount of expectations is enormous to carry with the brand image in sight.

“It is an honour to take on the role of Head Coach of Mumbai Indians,” Pollard said in an official press release. “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.

Reactions: Fans have their say on Kieron Pollard becoming head coach of the Mumbai Indians