Kieron Pollard named Mumbai Indians head coach ahead of IPL 2027

In advance of IPL 2027, Mumbai Indians have appointed Kieron Pollard as their new head coach. After retiring from the IPL prior to the 2023 season, Pollard served as the team's batting coach for the previous four seasons. He succeeds Mahela Jayawardene, who left the franchise this past 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 a stellar IPL record, having played 189 matches and taken 69 wickets while scoring 3412 runs at a strike rate of 147.32. Before taking on the role of batting coach and being promoted to the top position, he last played in the 2022 season.

In a statement, Pollard said, "It is an honor to take on the role of Head Coach of Mumbai Indians." The bond I have with this team, the players, and the Paltan [fanbase] means a great deal to me. MI has been a big part of my life and career. I understand what Mumbai Indians stand for and the responsibility that comes with representing the Blue and Gold, having gone through this journey as a player and then as a coach.

He went on to say, "I look forward to working closely with the players and support staff, building on the team's legacy, assisting our talent in growing, and providing the Paltan with many more reasons to celebrate."

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, playing this year for Trinbago Knight Riders in the CPL and MI New York in the MLC. Earlier this month, he was signed by Joburg Super Kings in the SA20 player auction for the 2027 season. His first position in this capacity is as head coach of Michigan.

"Pollard joined the Mumbai Indians when he was just 22 years old, and over the past 16 years, he has become an essential member 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 is aware of what it entails to play for the Paltan and what it means to wear the MI jersey. I am certain that he will approach this position with the same dedication, faith, and determination. 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.