Kieron Pollard named Mumbai Indians head coach ahead of upcoming IPL season
Kieron Pollard was appointed head coach of the Mumbai Indians on October 24, 2026, the franchise announced, taking the role ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League season. The promotion elevates Pollard from his previous position as the team’s batting coach.
Pollard’s appointment continues a long-standing link between the former West Indies all-rounder and the Mumbai Indians, where he spent 13 years as a player. The franchise, a five-time IPL champion, has promoted Pollard from within its coaching staff rather than recruiting externally.
During his playing career for Mumbai Indians, Pollard scored 3,915 runs, making him the franchise’s third-highest run-scorer. He featured in every title-winning campaign while with the team and also served as a temporary captain on occasions.
After retiring from playing, Pollard remained with Mumbai Indians as a coach and served as the team’s batting coach before this elevation. Announcing his appointment, Pollard said he was honoured to take on the new responsibility and thanked Nita Ambani, Akash Ambani and the MI family for their trust; he also expressed his desire to build on the team's legacy, develop talent and give the supporters more reasons to celebrate.
The change in coaching comes as Mumbai Indians seek to regain consistent top-tier form; since Hardik Pandya returned to the franchise ahead of the 2024 season and took over as captain, Mumbai have reached the playoffs only once, finishing fourth. Those recent results have prompted questions about the team’s direction given its history of success.
Mahela Jayawardene has stepped aside after a tenure in which he guided Mumbai Indians to three IPL titles, and his departure ends a period of continuity in the franchise’s leadership. Pollard’s familiarity with the club is presented by the Mumbai Indians as an asset the new coach can draw on as he aims to translate that knowledge into improved outcomes.
Pollard will take charge for the upcoming IPL season as Mumbai Indians prepare to attempt a return to title contention under his stewardship.
