Mumbai Indians have continued their coaching overhaul ahead of IPL 2027, parting ways with Lasith Malinga, Paras Mhambrey and Carl Hopkinson from their men’s team coaching setup.The latest changes come days after the five-time IPL champions appointed Kieron Pollard as head coach, replacing Mahela Jayawardene. Pollard was promoted from his previous role as batting coach as Mumbai look to reshape their coaching setup ahead of the new season.The franchise announced the departures of Malinga, Mhambrey and Hopkinson on Thursday, bringing their respective spells with the team to an end.MALINGA, MHAMBREY DEPARTMalinga has been one of the most influential figures in Mumbai Indians’ history.
The former Sri Lanka fast bowler played a key role in four IPL title wins and the franchise’s 2011 Champions League T20 triumph before returning to the setup as a mentor and coach after retiring from playing.His departure marks the end of another chapter in a long association with the franchise, where he helped shape its bowling attack across multiple successful campaigns.Mhambrey also had an extended relationship with Mumbai Indians, serving the franchise from 2010 to 2017 before returning in 2024.
The experienced coach was involved in developing the team’s bowling redians ahead of the 2025 season after working with the England men’s team. He was part of the coaching setup responsible for improving the team’s fielding standards.POLLARD TAKES CHARGEPollard’s appointment as head coach marked a major change in Mumbai Indians’ leadership structure
The former West Indies all-rounder spent several seasons as the franchise’s batting coach after retiring from the IPL as a player and will now lead the team into the next season.Jayawardene’s departure had already signalled a shift in direction for Mumbai. During his two stints as head coach, from 2017 to 2022 and again from 2024 to 2026, he guided the franchise to three IPL titles, in 2017, 2019 and 2020.
The exits of Malinga, Mhambrey and Hopkinson suggest that the changes at Mumbai Indians extend beyond the head coach position. The franchise has not announced replacements for the departing coaches.With Pollard taking charge, Mumbai Indians will look to finalise their support staff as they prepare for IPL 2027.- Ends
Source: www.indiatoday.in
